The community health promotion plan: a CKD prevention and management strategy.

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the top 10 causes of death. CKD is often caused by diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN). Both DM Type 2 and HTN are treatable and preventable and, yet, the population of individuals diagnosed with these two diseases is increasing. Millions of dollars are spent every year providing dialysis treatments for patients with CKD. This money only accounts for dialysis and does not include the millions spent on complications such as infections, medications, tests and procedures. The burden to society is tremendous and the quality of life for these people is often poor. Health promotion and early detection is a key factor in reducing the risk for and incidence of DM and HTN, thus reducing the incidence of CKD. Three-quarters of health problems are preventable. Educating and providing the community with resources about diet, exercise, regular physical examinations, medication, and smoking cessation can empower the population with the necessary knowledge to help prevent these diseases. Health promotion and access to health promotion activities can, therefore, provide an active and healthier life.