Experts at the Lagos-based St. Nicholas Hospital have reiterated the importance of regular medical tests to detect and treat underlying conditions that could lead to renal dysfunction or kidney failure.

Nephrologist and Clinical Director at the hospital, Dr Ebun Bamgboye, spoke during World Kidney Day, themed “Kidney Health For All, Caring for the People, Protecting the Planet,” which also coincided with the hospital’s 26th kidney transplantation anniversary.

He explained that diabetes and high blood pressure are among the major conditions that damage kidney tissue over time, potentially leading to kidney failure if untreated.

Other causes include obesity, autoimmune diseases, genetic disorders like polycystic kidney disease, infections, and severe acute injuries from toxins, blockages, or excessive blood loss. Bamgboye stressed that regular medical tests can help detect these conditions early and guide timely interventions.

“Preventing kidney failure involves managing underlying health conditions, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding habits that damage kidney tissue,” he said. Key measures include controlling blood pressure, monitoring blood sugar, staying active, reducing salt intake, quitting smoking, and avoiding unnecessary over-the-counter painkillers.

On diet, Bamgboye advised limiting sodium to less than a teaspoon per day, consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and staying properly hydrated, while avoiding excessive fluid intake. For exercise and weight control, he recommended at least 150 minutes of physical activity weekly.

He also advised regular kidney function checks, including blood pressure, blood creatinine, and urine albumin tests, especially for individuals with a family history of kidney disease. The hospital has successfully performed 500 kidney transplants over its 26 years of service. He cautioned against abusing local herbs such as agbo, which may harm the kidneys.

Also, a Nephrologist and Consultant Transplantation Physician, Dr Adelaja Aderemi, added that prolonged exposure to heavy sunlight can strain muscles and contribute to kidney failure. He advised patients with kidney disease to moderate fluid intake and consume small amounts of protein from sources such as skinless fish and chicken to prevent malnutrition while protecting kidney function.