Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect approximately 850 million people worldwide.
If left undetected or without intervention, CKD can progress to kidney failure. By 2040, CKD is projected to become the 5th leading cause of years of life lost, highlighting the need for greater awareness of the serious nature of kidney disease.
If kidney disease is found early, medication, combined with diet and lifestyle changes, can prolong the life of your kidneys.
The major risk factors for kidney disease are:
- Diabetes
- High Blood Pressure
- Heart disease
- Overweight / Obesity
- Family history of kidney disease
- Smoker
- Over the age of 60
- Aboriginal and/Torres Strait Islander
Kidney Health Australia have a quick 5-minute test people can do and see their potential risk of developing kidney disease.
Kidney Disease is known as a silent killer, as you can lose up to 90% of kidney function without experiencing any symptoms.
MLHD’s Renal Stream is a team of health professionals who work with clients with CKD to slow disease progression, optimise quality of life and manage care. Services are tailored to individual clients needs and wishes and provided as close to home as possible.
The team includes a Nurse Practitioner, CKD Nurses, Dietitians, Social Workers, Aboriginal Health Worker and Pharmacist, who work together with a client’s Nephrologist (kidney specialist) and GP.
Referrals to the Renal team are through the Community Care Intake Service - find out more here.
