The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has joined the international community in commemorating the twentieth anniversary of World Kidney Day, urging Saint Lucians to take greater steps to protect kidney health and prevent chronic disease.
Observed under the theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet,” the initiative highlights the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles while safeguarding the environment that supports human wellbeing.
Senior Medical Officer in the Ministry of Health, Dr Shana Cyr-Philbert, said the annual observance is intended to raise awareness about kidney disease and the crucial role the organs play in overall health.
“World Kidney Day is a global call to action to raise awareness of the burden of kidney disease and the importance of our kidneys to overall health,” Dr Cyr-Philbert explained.
She noted that this year’s theme underscores the connection between environmental health and human wellbeing.
“We must preserve our natural environments by avoiding practices like air and water pollution to ensure that we can breathe clean air, have access to safe water and healthy food sources.”
Dr Cyr-Philbert emphasised the vital functions carried out by the kidneys within the human body.
“The kidneys are extremely important organs which are responsible for very key functions in the body,” she explained. “These include eliminating waste and toxins, controlling the excretion of water and electrolytes, regulating blood pressure and stimulating blood production.”
Despite their importance, kidney disease often develops silently, leaving many people unaware that their health is at risk. According to the International Society of Nephrology, approximately 850 million people worldwide are living with some form of kidney disease.
“Unfortunately, kidney disease often shows no symptoms at first, so most people are not aware that there is a problem,” Dr Cyr-Philbert noted.
Global estimates indicate that about ten percent of the population suffers from chronic kidney disease, commonly known as CKD. If left untreated, chronic kidney disease can progress to end-stage renal disease, which requires dialysis to sustain life.
“The burden of end-stage renal disease is a major challenge and financial burden for individuals, families and healthcare systems, especially in countries like ours,” Dr Cyr-Philbert explained.
Local data also highlights the impact of kidney disease within Saint Lucia.
“Data from the National Epidemiology Unit for 2023 shows that chronic kidney disease accounted for 0.4 percent of the 1,529 total recorded deaths for that year,” she stated.
Health officials say prevention remains one of the most effective strategies for reducing the incidence of kidney disease.
Dr Cyr-Philbert encouraged the public to understand the major risk factors associated with the condition.
“The most common risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obesity and a family history of kidney disease,” she said. “Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Stay hydrated. Drink water,” Dr Cyr-Philbert advised.
“Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, but low in processed foods. Engage in moderate physical activity for at least 30 minutes, five days a week,” she said.
She further urged individuals to avoid harmful substances.
“Avoid harmful substances like tobacco and alcohol.”
Monitoring key health indicators can also help with early detection.
“Check your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels regularly. Know your weight,” she explained.
Dr Cyr-Philbert encouraged the public to visit healthcare providers for routine testing.
“Visit your nearest community wellness centre or healthcare provider for regular blood and urine tests which can check kidney function.”
She also advised individuals to pay attention to warning signs that may indicate kidney problems.
“Changes in urine frequency, colour, back pain or swelling should be checked with your healthcare provider,” she said.
The Ministry of Health says activities surrounding World Kidney Day are intended to encourage greater awareness and preventive action, ensuring that more Saint Lucians understand the importance of protecting kidney health while adopting habits that support both personal wellbeing and environmental sustainability.