Source: Kidney Health New Zealand
Kidney Health New Zealand will be providing free testing for kidney disease at the Pasifika Festival this Saturday and Sunday at Auckland’s Western Springs.
National Clinical Manager Merryn Jones says Pasifika people are among high-risk groups being targeted for free testing this month.
“As a former dialysis nurse and transplant coordinator, I’ve met a lot of people living with kidney failure, and the stories are heartbreaking,” Ms Jones says.
“Testing can identify some of the common risk factors for kidney disease, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as kidney disease itself.
“Early detection means people can better manage their kidney health by doing such things as making lifestyle changes or taking medications for high blood pressure or diabetes that may prevent or slow down the progression of chronic kidney disease”.
Other high-risk groups include Māori, people of South East Asian and Indian descent, and those aged over 60 years.
Kidney Health New Zealand will be in the Hub area near the Cook Island village at the Pasifika Festival from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday. The check takes about 5 minutes and includes a blood pressure check and a finger prick blood test.
“If you’re going to the Pasifika Festival this weekend, please come and get a free test, otherwise ask your GP or healthcare provider for a test,” Jones says.
“Early detection through testing and preventative measures are the key to tackling chronic kidney disease.”
In New Zealand, kidney disease affects at least 1 in 10 people, although prevalence is believed to be higher in Māori and Pasifika populations.
Kidney Health New Zealand, a charity dedicated to better kidney health for Kiwis, is doing free tests at events all around the country this month – including at New Zealand Parliament on 12 March. World Kidney Day is on 13 March.
Anyone in New Zealand affected by kidney disease, including relatives, can contact Kidney Health New Zealand’s free helpline from 8.30am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, on 0800 543 649.
Visit www.kidney.health.nz for more information.