Kingaroy renal unit nurses will be getting behind Kidney Health Week (May 26–June 1) by dressing in red and inviting residents to learn more about kidney health at a special education morning tea.
Kingaroy Renal Nurse Unit Manager Andrea Rolfe said Kidney Health Week was a good opportunity to raise awareness about kidney disease, diabetes and other related illnesses.
“This is an Australian national awareness week,” she said.
One in three Australians is at increased risk of kidney disease. Undetected, untreated kidney disease is a silent killer.
“Many people don’t know that you can lose up to 90 per cent of your kidney function without even realising it and by then, it’s too late,” Ms Rolfe said.
“We are getting involved in the campaign to let the South Burnett community know that it’s important to assess your risk of chronic kidney disease.”
Ms Rolfe said the Kingaroy renal unit is inviting hospital staff and members of the public to “Dress in Red” at a morning tea and information session being held from 9:30am-11:30am on Tuesday, May 28, on the grassed area outside the renal unit at Kingaroy Hospital.
“We are hoping lots of staff and community members can attend, wearing red, to enjoy morning tea but also to learn more about kidney health,” she said.
“Kidney disease is on the increase and it kills more Australians a year than breast cancer, prostate cancer or even road deaths.
“There is no cure for kidney disease, but early detection can increase the life of your kidneys and keep you feeling your best for as long as possible,” Ms Rolfe said.
Adult Australians are at increased risk of chronic kidney disease if they:
- Have diabetes
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Are obese (body mass index greater or equal to 30)
- Have a family history of kidney disease
- Are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin
- Are over 60 years of age
- Are a smoker
- Have established heart problems (heart failure or past heart attack) and/or have had a stroke
For more information go to www.kidney.org.au or call 1800-454-363 (1800 4 KIDNEY)
