In a groundbreaking effort to combat the often-overlooked issue of kidney disease, Dr. Anjay Rastogi, a leading expert in nephrology at UCLA Health, is amplifying awareness through a dedicated Kidney Health Program. With nearly two decades of medical expertise, Dr. Rastogi’s initiative aims to educate the public, especially college-aged students, about the critical importance of kidney health, particularly during Kidney Awareness Month.

Dr. Rastogi, who received his medical training in India and completed advanced studies at the prestigious David Geffen School of Medicine, emphasizes alarming statistics: one in three adults in the U.S. are at risk for kidney disease, yet the majority remain unaware of their condition. “If you're in a classroom of 300 students, roughly 100 are at risk, and one in seven might already have kidney disease,” he explains. “It's shocking how many people are suffering in silence.”

Why Kidney Awareness Matters

The primary focus of the Kidney Health Program, founded in 2016, is to empower individuals to advocate for their health through simple yet vital tests. "Many people might not realize they have kidney issues until it's too late," Dr. Rastogi warns. “A simple blood and urine test can make all the difference.”

Kidney disease operates on a spectrum with five stages; neglecting healthy monitoring and early diagnosis could ultimately lead to the need for dialysis or a transplant in the late stages. “The reality is that the risk of dying often increases significantly even in stage three,” he stresses.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Many individuals might not experience noticeable symptoms until it’s too late. However, signs like swollen legs, headaches, high blood pressure, or feelings of nausea should prompt immediate medical attention. “Being asymptomatic doesn’t mean you’re in the clear,” Dr. Rastogi warns. “In fact, many who are diagnosed later on had potential warning signs that were missed.”

Function of Kidneys in Health

Kidneys are crucial players in maintaining overall health; they filter waste from the blood, regulate electrolytes, and manage hormonal functions, including activating vitamin D. Without proper kidney function, patients can suffer from anemia and vitamin D deficiency, leading to numerous health complications.

Myths Debunked

Dr. Rastogi addresses several misconceptions around kidney disease, like the belief that it’s rare or that treatment options such as transplants or dialysis are sufficient. "Kidney disease is more common than people think, yet public awareness campaigns pale in comparison to others, like those for colon cancer," he laments. He also notes that patients must follow rigorous medication regimens post-transplant, and dialysis only partially replaces kidney functions.

Lifestyle Changes for Kidney Protection

To protect against kidney damage, Dr. Rastogi suggests several lifestyle adjustments. He warns against overuse of common medications like ibuprofen, highlights the dangers of smoking, and stresses the importance of hydration and a balanced diet. "What’s good for your heart is usually good for your kidneys," he insists. He recommends avoiding excessive protein intake and suggests a diet low in phosphorus, potassium, and sodium for those with kidney concerns.

Improving Quality of Life

Regardless of the disease stage, kidney issues can significantly impact a person's quality of life. Dr. Rastogi encourages individuals to seek resources available at local health centers and educational institutions. Prevention is key, and the more informed the public is, the more lives can be saved.

As Kidney Awareness Month unfolds, Dr. Rastogi's efforts remind us that with knowledge and proactive measures, we can together combat this silent epidemic. Stay healthy, stay proactive, and remember: your kidneys matter!