Manila’s Hidden Epidemic: Are Your Kidneys at Risk?

Chronic Kidney Disease is on the rise in the Philippines, here’s how to stay one step ahead.

In the busy streets of the city, most people are concerned about traffic, deadlines, and where to get their next iced coffee. Rarely do we think about our kidneys. Yet quietly, without obvious symptoms, kidney disease is affecting more and more Filipinos, especially those living in urban areas like Metro Manila.

The Silent Crisis
According to the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) study in 2022, over 35% of adult Filipinos are at risk for chronic kidney disease, often without even knowing it. Even more alarming: CKD consistently ranks in the top 10 leading causes of death in the Philippines according to the Philippine Statistics Authority and is anticipated to rank as the fifth most common cause of death by 2040.

Why Urban Living Can Increase Your Risk?
More young adults are undergoing dialysis due to lifestyle-related diseases according to NKTI. Living in a fast-paced city like Makati comes with its own set of health challenges that may quietly damage your kidneys over time. They also noted that poor dietary choices, the preference and availability for salty and sweet food, directly impacts kidney health.

• High-Sodium Diets: Fast food, instant meals, and processed snacks are staples in urban life—yet they’re loaded with salt, a major driver of hypertension and kidney damage.
• Dehydration: In a tropical climate, many office workers drink more coffee or soda than water. Chronic dehydration strains your kidneys.
• Stress and Sedentary Lifestyle: Long hours at a desk, elevated stress hormones, and lack of physical activity are linked to diabetes and high blood pressure, two of the leading causes of CKD
• Limited Health Screening: Busy schedules mean many urban professionals skip regular checkups, allowing early signs of kidney issues to go unnoticed.

Know Your Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk for CKD if you:

• Have diabetes or high blood pressure
• Have a family history of kidney disease
• Are over 40 years old
• Are overweight or obese
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers frequently
• Smoke or consume alcohol excessively

Prevention is Power
The good news? CKD is preventable and when caught early, it’s manageable. Here’s how:

• Get Screened: A simple blood and urine test can assess your kidney function. Makati Life offers quick and affordable screening packages.
• Hydrate Properly: Aim for 8-10 glasses of water a day. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks.
• Eat Smart: Choose low-sodium, fresh, and fiber-rich foods.
• Move Regularly: Even 30 minutes of walking daily can help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar.
• Manage Underlying Conditions: Control diabetes, hypertension, and cholesterol with guidance from your healthcare provider.

What Makati Life Can Do for You
At Makati Life Medical Center, we’re committed to helping every patient live a long and healthy life. Our nephrologist consultation, screening packages, comprehensive diagnostic services, and preventive health and wellness programs are designed to catch kidney issues early, before they become life-threatening.

Take charge of your health. Early action can save your kidneys and your life. Book your kidney screening today.