MISSED WARNINGS: Women often dismiss persistent fatigue as stress or hormonal changes without realising they may be linked to kidney health. |
protection, potentially accelerating disease progression.
" Additionally, polycystic ovary syndrome( PCOS) has emerged as a significant but under-recognised risk factor. It is closely linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. It can also lead to diabetes and high blood pressure earlier in life, both major causes of kidney damage over time," Dr Rosnawati added.
Dr Rosnawati stressed the importance of getting blood pressure and blood sugar tests every year. " Just because blood pressure or blood sugar normalises at one stage of life does not mean the risk disappears. Women need long-term follow-up, even if they feel well."
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primary indicator of kidney function, are directly affected by muscle mass. She urged women not to rely on numbers alone but to ask their doctor what those numbers really mean for them.
" Since women generally have less muscle than men, a ' normal ' creatinine level might still mask early kidney issues. A reading of 90 may be fine for a large man, but in a petite woman, it could signal reduced kidney reserve."
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LONG-TERM IMPRINT ON KIDNEY HEALTH
Pregnancy and menopause are two life events that can increase a woman ' s risk of future kidney problems. Complications like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes indicate persistent vascular or metabolic issues, raising the risk of hypertension, proteinuria, and CKD two to four times. After menopause, lower oestrogen further reduces kidney and blood vessel
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PREGNANCY RISK: Pregnancy is a key life stage that may influence future kidney risk, especially for women with metabolic or vascular complications. |
SIMPLE TESTS FOR EARLY DETECTION
For women, especially those with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, autoimmune disease, or a history of pregnancy complications, early screening for kidney disease is not optional; it is essential. Just three simple tests can catch trouble early: A blood test for kidney function A urine test for protein( preferably a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio) A blood pressure check
" Protein in the urine is one of the earliest signs of kidney damage, yet many dipstick tests miss it. Early detection changes everything, as there are so many treatment options available. With the right treatment, kidney decline can also be slowed dramatically," said Dr Rosnawati.
" Our goal is preservation. If we can reduce the kidney decline from 10 per cent a year to just 2 per cent, many patients may never need dialysis."
CKD develops quietly, often going unnoticed until it is advanced. Therefore, recognising the signs early and taking prompt action is important. For women who look after others, remember that your health is the foundation of the care you provide. Hence, prioritising your own health is essential, not selfish.
" Even if you feel fine, get checked. Do not wait for symptoms. If your blood tests are ' normal ' but something still feels off, ask your doctor about your kidneys," urged Dr Rosnawati.- The HEALTH
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