Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the top 10 causes of death.
CKD is often caused by diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension
(HTN). Both DM Type 2 and HTN are treatable and preventable
and, yet, the population of individuals diagnosed with these
two diseases is increasing. Millions of dollars are spent every year
providing dialysis treatments for patients with CKD. This money
only accounts for dialysis and does not include the millions spent on
complications such as infections, medications, tests and procedures.
The burden to society is tremendous and the quality of life for these
people is often poor.
Health promotion and early detection is a key factor in reducing the
risk for and incidence of DM and HTN, thus reducing the incidence
of CKD. Three-quarters of health problems are preventable.
Educating and providing the community with resources about diet,
exercise, regular physical examinations, medication, and smoking
cessation can empower the population with the necessary knowledge
to help prevent these diseases. Health promotion and access to
health promotion activities can, therefore, provide an active and
healthier life.