REDCOP, DOH tell public how to prevent kidney diseases

By Robert E. Roperos

Thursday 14th of June 2012

BUTUAN CITY, June 14 (PIA) -- Officials of the Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP) and Department of Health-Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga informed the public on how to prevent kidney diseases.

Ms. Delma Legaspi of DOH-CHD Caraga who is also the region’s REDCOP coordinator said drinking six to eight glass of water may help in flushing out bacteria “thus, cleaning our kidney.”

Dr. Romina Rusillon, a nephrologist of Caraga region who is also a partner of the REDCOP in its advocacy campaign, agreed with what Legaspi said, saying that there is no other fluid that may be considered best to take but the water.

When asked how effective coco water to be used as cleansing fluid for the kidney, Rusillon said there is yet a scientific study to prove this claim. However, he said drinking enough glasses of water daily can really help in cleansing the internal organs of our body, especially the kidney.

In a related development, Legaspi said everybody should adopt healthy lifestyle. “By healthy lifestyle, it means that we should not abuse our body by taking anything that may satisfy our cravings,” she said.

The officials added said since there are various causes of kidney diseases, the most important step is early recognition of the causes. To do this, regular check-ups with the doctor and at least a yearly urine examination should be done.

The official added that people with diabetes are more prone to kidney disease.

They added since the leading causes of end-stage renal disease are complications of diabetes mellitus and hypertension, control and prevention of high blood sugar for diabetes and high blood pressure for hypertensives are very important to prevent or delay the development of kidney problems that usually lead to end-stage kidney failure.

The officials were invited by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Caraga during the taping of today’s episode of “Caraga in Focus” which features the National Kidney Month Celebration. (RER/PIA 13-Caraga)