WILLEMSTAD – World Kidney Day was observed yesterday with the global theme “Kidney Health for Everyone: Care for People, Protect the Planet,” focusing on raising awareness about kidney health, early detection of kidney disease and stronger prevention efforts.
The international campaign emphasizes the importance of maintaining healthy kidneys and identifying kidney problems at an early stage, when treatment can still prevent serious damage.
On Curaçao, the issue is particularly relevant. Studies show that a significant portion of the population suffers from health conditions that can lead to kidney damage. The most common causes are diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure, which helps explain why kidney disease occurs relatively frequently on the island.
The Curaçao Kidney Foundation is working to increase awareness about kidney health through educational activities at schools, companies and various institutions. The organization hopes that greater knowledge will encourage people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
According to the campaign, many kidney diseases can be prevented by making healthier choices. These include eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, drinking enough water and regularly checking blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
World Kidney Day also highlights the environmental impact of kidney treatments. Dialysis, for example, requires large amounts of water and energy, while climate change can also affect kidney health.
One of the biggest challenges is that many people do not realize they have kidney problems. Only one in ten people with chronic kidney disease is aware of their condition. Kidney damage often develops slowly and without clear symptoms, allowing the disease to go unnoticed for a long time.
Health experts stress that early detection is essential so that treatment and medical guidance can begin before the kidneys suffer severe damage. People with kidney disease also face a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular problems.