Risk Factors for Renal Disease

The risk factors for renal disease vary and can affect anyone of any race, class or background. However, certain diseases that may be preventable are leading causes of this condition. Knowing what your risk factors are can help you understand what lifestyle changes you may need to make to reduce your risks of renal disease.

Advanced Age

People that are aged 60 and over are at an increased risk for renal disease. This is because this population is more affected by diabetes and high blood pressure, which are leading causes of renal disease. Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle with plenty of exercise is very important to help prevent this disease.

Diabetes

According to the American Kidney Fund, diabetes is a leading cause of kidney disease. Diabetes is caused when the body is not able to make or use the amount of insulin that the body needs. Diabetes can be difficult for some people to control, and these people are at an increased risk for many complications including renal disease. Diabetes can damage the kidneys and cause them to not be able to remove waste and toxins from the body, potentially resulting in renal disease.

High Blood Pressure

The American Kidney Fund reports that one out of four cases of kidney failure are caused by high blood pressure. High blood pressure that is uncontrolled or undiagnosed can damage small blood vessels in the kidneys over long periods. Once done, this damage is irreversible and will lead to renal disease. Keeping an eye on your blood pressure and following your physician's advice if you are diagnosed with this disease is very important.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease can also lead to renal disease. According to The Mayo Clinic, some types of cardiovascular disease--such as congestive heart failure--cause a reduced blood supply to the kidneys, which can damage the renal tubules. This is why, if you are aware of a heart condition, it is important to follow your physician's instructions and take the best care of yourself. Renal disease can be very difficult to manage in a cardiac patient and can reduce the quality of life.

Race

Some ethnic groups are at a greater risk for developing kidney disease than others. The American Kidney Fund reports that African Americans, Hispanics, Asian Americans and Native Americans are more at risk because diabetes and high blood pressure commonly affect them and because they are less likely to have access to health care or have health insurance.

References

• The American Kidney Fund; Are You at Risk for Kidney Disease?; 2009;
• The Mayo Clinic; Kidney Failure; 2009;