MANILA -- To attain healthy kidneys, one must take care of the environment, especially the sources of potable water in the country.
This was the battlecry of the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI) as the agency celebrated the National Kidney Month themed "Kalusugan ng Bato'y Makakamtan sa Pag aalaga ng Kalikasan."
Dr. Marc Angelo Hizon, chief fellow of NKTI's Department of Adult Nephorology, underscored how the environment can create an impact in preventing kidney disease in the country.
"If we keep our environment clean, we can also be assured that there will be safe water sources for drinking. At the same time if we prevent drainage clogging, we can help reduce the risk for some people to (contract) leptospirosis," Hizon said.
Hizon noted the high risk of contracting leptospiroris during the rainy season when flooding would be frequent.
He said exposure to flood water containing urine of rats and other animals may enter the body through open wounds, abrasions and other openings.
"If the environment is not clean, usually, there will be more pests such as rats which can cause leptospirosis among humans," he said, noting that severe cases of leptospirosis can result in severe kidney failure.
"That is why some cases of leptospirosis when not treated early lead to dialysis."
Hizon also called on the public to intensify clean up efforts to ensure the availability of potable water since taking sufficient amount to keep one hydrated is a way to maintain healthy kidneys.
The NKTI every June of each year celebrates National Kidney Month by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 184 signed by former President Fidel Ramos in May 31, 1993.
This year's celebration kicked off with an an "alay lakad" activity participated by different representatives from government hospitals and other government institutions.
Aside from promoting healthy environment, the agency also pushed for the promotion of healthy lifestyle as a way to prevent kidney diseases.
According to NKTI, diabetes and hypertension diseases remain the top cause for dialysis treatment.
"By having a healthy lifestyle-doing exercise or engaging more in physical activities and diet control or reducing intake of salty and sweetened foods we can prevent the risk of hypertension and diabetes, thus reducing the risk of developing kidney and chronic kidney diseases," Hizon said.
Chronic kidney diseases is included in the top ten causes of mortality in the Philippines. (PNA)
