Kidney: The World's Most Demanded Organ
The kidney is the main organ of the urinary system. Its primary function is to remove harmful toxins from the blood and expel them from the body, via the urine. This, however, is not its only function.
In addition to filtering the blood, it is also responsible for performing some other important functions such as 'regulating blood pressure', 'producing some vital hormones' and regulating certain other biological functions.
This bean-shaped organ is multi-functional and quite versatile. It plays a major role in achieving and maintaining optimized health, and plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis.
Most people are born with two, but it is entirely possible to survive, without any major health problems, with a single healthy kidney. One must be careful, however, not to damage this vital organ, through harmful lifestyle habits and choices.
Very often, chronic renal problems are caused by poor dietary and lifestyle choices. Many renal problems can be prevented by making simple changes to diet and harmful lifestyle practices.
The Kidney is the World's Most Transplanted Organ
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO), just over 100,000 solid organ transplants are performed every year, worldwide.
Of this figure, approximately 69,400 are renal transplants; 20,200 are liver transplants; 5,400 are heart transplants; 3,400 are lung transplants and 2,400 are pancreas transplants.
Globally, renal transplants account for almost 69% of all solid organ transplants. This makes the kidney the most sought after organ in the entire world.
These statistics are quite alarming!
... But even more alarming is the fact that the approximately 69,400 annual renal transplants only represent a mere 10% of the estimated need. In other words, the estimated annual global need for renal transplants is in the vicinity of 700,000 or more! This figure only refers to the most severe cases of renal failure that can only be effectively treated via a transplant.
Dealing with this crisis requires considerable effort. There simply aren't enough available kidneys to resolve this problem. Consideration must be given to preventative measures in order to minimize the incidences of renal diseases, which ultimately lead to complete renal failure... There are some simple actions we all can take.
Consider the following recommendations:
- Invest some time to learn about your kidney and the crucial role it plays in maintaining good health. There are lots of relevant information and tips on this website.
- Visit your doctor for an assessment, to determine whether any intervention or preventative action is necessary.
- Quit procrastinating! Why not begin (today) to implement some simple measures that will go a long way in helping to preserve and improve the health of your kidneys...
Drink adequate amounts of water every day, be careful of your diet, exercise regularly, learn to effectively manage stress and avoid destructive lifestyle habits (such as smoking). - Finally, spread the word. Let your family and friends know the importance of preserving the function of their kidneys and the consequences if they don't.
Reversing the global trend of renal disease requires a collective effort. Simply adopting healthier lifestyles and helping others to do the same will go a long way.
Thank you for visiting this website and please feel free to contact us with any suggestions, comments or questions.
