Diabetes is the second leading cause of kidney failure in South Africa, according to SA Renal registry annual report 2015, published 1 September 2017.
The kidney, filters waste and regulates fluid, hormones, acids and salt through small, finger-like nephrons, which receive oxygen and essential nutrients through a dense network of tiny capillaries. Prolonged high glucose in the blood stream impacts blood circulation in the kidney’s blood filtering system (glomerulus) and causes damage to the nephrons resulting in protein passing into the urine. This happens years before any symptoms of kidney disease begins, which is why regular urine checks are essential in monitoring kidney health.
Changes in kidney function may begin within 2 to 5 years after diagnosis of diabetes type 1 and up to 40% of people develop late stage kidney disease within three decades of being diagnosed.
Type 2 diabetes usually occurs later in life but follows a similar timeline to diabetes type 1.
Diabetics, specifically type 1 diabetics who were diagnosed before the age of 20, are at risk of developing a kidney disease. Other factors increasing risk of kidney disease are obesity, high blood pressure, family history and smoking.
A healthy diet and medication to control glucose levels is recommended.
The Kidney Protect specialist team are on standby to provide a urine analysis, provide guidance on further diagnostic processes and provide a treatment plan according to your needs. Contact Kidney Protect on info@kidney-protect.com for information on the closest clinic in your area.
