This Christmas, it’s time to unwrap something priceless: better health. Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines is back with It Starts With U: Get CheCKD, a health awareness campaign focused on kidney health and its critical connections to chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure.
Happening on November 30, 2024, at Ayala Malls Manila Bay in Parañaque City, this event brings together Boehringer Ingelheim, Dialysis PH, KITAP, and PAPO to educate and inspire Filipinos to take charge of their kidney health through fun, interactive, and informative activities.
Why Kidney Health Matters
What's Inside
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the fastest-growing health threats in the Philippines, yet many are unaware of the risks. Over 2.3 million Filipinos are already living with CKD, and every hour, another person faces the possibility of kidney failure.
“CKD is often silent but can have severe consequences if left undetected,” says Dr. Greta Cortez, Head of Medicine at Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines. “Early detection and prevention are key to managing this disease, especially given its strong link to diabetes and hypertension.”
Here’s why you should care:
- Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels in the kidneys, increasing the risk of CKD.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure can impair kidney function over time.
Together, these conditions create a dangerous cycle, increasing the likelihood of heart failure and other life-threatening complications.
What to Expect at the Event
It Starts With U: Get CheCKD will raise awareness about CKD with activity zones that educate, motivate, and entertain. Here’s what’s in store:
- Movement CheCKD Zone: Get your groove on with live Zumba and POUND® sessions, encouraging everyone to embrace an active lifestyle.
- Nutrition CheCKD Zone: Enjoy delicious, kidney-friendly snacks while learning how small dietary changes can make a big difference.
- Health CheCKD Zone: Check your vitals, like blood pressure and heart rate, and consult with doctors about your health. At-risk individuals can even avail of a FREE two-step kidney screening.
- Check Your Choices Game: Learn how to protect your kidneys through a giant, life-sized board game that’s both fun and educational!
You’ll also find an educational booth hosted by Boehringer Ingelheim, featuring an interactive website full of resources about CKD, its risk factors, and tips for prevention.
How to Screen for CKD
Getting screened for CKD is quick and simple:
- Creatinine Test (eGFR): A blood test to measure waste products in the blood, helping doctors assess kidney function.
- Urine Albumin-Creatinine Ratio (uACR): A urine test to detect protein levels, which can indicate kidney damage.
These tests are non-invasive and crucial for early detection.
Who’s At Risk?
Certain health and lifestyle factors increase the risk of CKD, including:
- Chronic conditions: Diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
- Lifestyle habits: High-sodium diets, smoking, lack of exercise, and stress.
- Family history: A genetic predisposition to CKD or related conditions.
If any of these sound familiar, now’s the time to take proactive steps toward better health.
Make Health Your Holiday Gift
This holiday season, instead of giving another pair of socks or a box of chocolates, why not offer your loved ones the gift of good health?
By joining It Starts With U: Get CheCKD, you’ll gain valuable insights into kidney health and how to prevent CKD through simple lifestyle changes.
Mark your calendars for November 30 and head to Ayala Malls Manila Bay for this life-changing event. Consult your doctor, get screened, and take the first step toward a healthier future.
For more information, visit ItStartsWithYou.com.ph. Let’s make health the ultimate holiday tradition!