Doctors: Early Detection of Kidney Disorders Crucial from Working Age
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Doctors recommend kidney health screenings for adults aged 25-35 to maintain work productivity.
- Early detection through simple tests like urinalysis can prevent advanced kidney disease.
- Maintaining adequate fluid intake and limiting high-oxalate foods are key to preventing kidney stones.
Urologist Donny Eka Putra emphasizes the critical importance of kidney health screenings for young adults, particularly those aged 25 to 35, who are in their most productive years. He warns that untreated kidney disorders can significantly reduce work efficiency, noting that this age group often neglects health checks until diseases reach advanced stages.
Screening in young adults who are still actively working is very important. If kidney disease occurs and is not treated properly, work effectiveness will decrease.
"Screening in young adults who are still actively working is very important. If kidney disease occurs and is not treated properly, work effectiveness will decrease," Putra stated during the launch of the Urology & Nephrology Clinic at Bethsaida Hospital Gading Serpong. He explained that initial detection is relatively simple, recommending urinalysis as part of routine medical check-ups. An optional kidney ultrasound (USG) can further supplement these checks.
Preventing kidney stones primarily involves maintaining sufficient fluid intake, with about 1.5 to 2 liters of water per day recommended for individuals with normal activity levels. However, fluid needs vary based on body weight and activity. "People who exercise a lot or work outdoors naturally need more fluids. Don't generalize; drinking needs should be calculated based on body weight," Putra advised. Adequate hydration helps flush out stone-forming crystals before they can settle in the kidneys.
People who exercise a lot or work outdoors naturally need more fluids. Don't generalize; drinking needs should be calculated based on body weight.
Beyond hydration, Putra advises limiting foods high in oxalates, such as nuts, tea, and certain seafood like shellfish and crab. Excessive intake of high-dose vitamin C should also be avoided. He further noted that metabolic disorders can be a risk factor for kidney stones, potentially leading to excessive calcium absorption or inefficient oxalate excretion. Individuals living in tropical climates like Indonesia are at a higher risk of kidney stones if they do not consume enough fluids, as heat increases fluid loss through sweat, raising the risk of dehydration.
The heat makes the body lose fluids more easily through sweat, increasing the risk of dehydration.
Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.