May 23, 2014
Kingaroy Hospital’s renal unit will be offering free health checks to hospital staff and community members on Tuesday as part of Kidney Health Week.
Held nationally, Kidney Health Week is aimed at encouraging all Australians to take the time to check the health of their kidneys.
It also aims to educate Australians about kidney disease and the links it has to other chronic conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure which are two of the most common causes of kidney disease.
“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,” nurse unit manager Karen Quealy said.
“We’re getting involved in this campaign to let the South Burnett community know that it’s important to assess your risk of chronic kidney disease, especially if you have a risk factor like diabetes or high blood pressure.”
Fifty-six people die from kidney-related disease every day in Australia, and more Australians die with diseases of the kidney and urinary tract each year than from breast cancer, prostate cancer or even road deaths.
The free checks will be held from 9:30am to 11:30am in conjunction with a morning tea at the Renal Unit.
