Lifestyle Changes Can Reduce Risk of Chronic Kidney Disease
Lynne Wright understands the importance of healthy kidneys firsthand, as her husband Scott nearly lost his life to kidney disease. Inspired by a young woman who donated a kidney to save him, Lynne became a kidney donor herself in 2020. Today, she works full-time at the Kidney Foundation of Central Pennsylvania, running the Patient and Family Partner Program. This program trains volunteers who have been affected by kidney disease to provide emotional support to clients facing the disease for the first time.
Capital Blue Cross has partnered with Strive Health to offer better care for members with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) at no additional cost. This program includes a team of medical professionals who specialize in CKD and can help coordinate care, provide dietary advice, and assist with shopping for kidney-friendly foods.
According to experts, CKD is a life-altering condition that affects millions of people in the U.S. each year. The cost of treating CKD and end-stage renal disease is significant, with a large portion of medical expenses related to hospitalizations. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney failure, and individuals over 60 are at higher risk.
To reduce the risk of CKD, the Kidney Foundation of Central PA recommends adopting healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and monitoring blood pressure. It’s also essential to take prescribed medications, avoid tobacco, and limit the use of certain medications that can harm the kidneys.
By taking proactive steps to care for your kidneys and emotional well-being, you can reduce the risk of developing CKD and improve your overall quality of life.
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