Celebrating World Kidney Day – are you taking care of your kidneys?

10 March is World Kidney Day, and all this week is Healthy Kidney Week. Deputy Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd answers 3 important questions on how you can keep these vital organs healthy and happy.

Date published:
Audience:
General public

It’s important to keep your kidneys healthy. For World Kidney Day, Chief Medical Officer Professor Michael Kidd helps you better understand how these vital organs function and what problems to look for.

Watch the full video and Michael’s Top 3:

  1. Why is kidney health important?
  2. How do I know if my kidneys are healthy or not?
  3. How do I know if my kidneys are at risk?

Some key takeaways from Professor Kidd are that:

  • Your kidneys are as important as your heart and lungs, so taking care of them is essential.
  • The major risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. People who have none of these risk factors may still develop kidney disease.
  • You can lose up to 90% of kidney function without noticing any obvious signs. If you have any of the major risk factors, it’s important to get tested annually for kidney disease. Find where to get tested at the Health Direct Service Finder.

Kidney Health Australia (KHA) has produced an online risk assessment test for kidney disease, the test will better help you understand your risk category. To take the test or learn more about your kidneys, visit the KHA website.

Help us improve health.gov.au

If you would like a response please use the enquiries form instead.