End-stage kidney disease (ESKD), also known as end-stage renal failure, is the final and most critical phase of chronic kidney disease (CKD). At this point, the kidneys have lost nearly all their ability to function, and survival depends on dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Traditionally seen as a disease of older adults, kidney failure is now increasingly affecting younger people—a concerning shift that demands greater public awareness about early symptoms, risk factors, and prevention strategies.
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One high-profile case in Vietnam involved a popular actress under the age of 30 who was recently diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease. Her story shocked the nation, but unfortunately, she is not alone. Nephrologists around the world are sounding the alarm: kidney failure is becoming more common among young adults—and in many cases, it’s preventable.
What’s Behind This Trend? Two Major Lifestyle Factors
1. High-Protein, Processed Diets
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In the pursuit of weight loss or muscle gain, many young adults turn to high-protein diets and supplements. While protein is essential, excessive intake—especially from supplements—can overload the kidneys. Elevated levels of urea and uric acid strain these organs, increasing the risk of kidney stones and long-term damage.
Processed foods are another major culprit. Packed with sodium, sugar, and phosphates, they put additional pressure on the kidneys. A 2020 study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that diets high in sodium and low in potassium are linked to kidney decline—even in otherwise healthy young adults.
2. Sedentary Lifestyles
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A lack of physical activity is another significant risk factor. Inactivity contributes to obesity, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes—all of which are known to damage kidney function.
A 2023 study in Kidney International Reports found that a sedentary lifestyle is directly associated with a faster decline in kidney function, measured by the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)—a key indicator of how well the kidneys are working.
Modern habits are part of the problem. Many young people now spend up to 10–12 hours a day sitting, whether working at a computer, scrolling on their phones, or streaming TV shows.
Early Symptoms Are Subtle—but Serious
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The kidneys are remarkably resilient, able to function with up to 90% impairment before symptoms appear. When signs do develop, they can include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Itching or muscle cramps
- Decreased urine output
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or around the eyes
- Shortness of breath (due to fluid in the lungs)
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Loss of appetite
- Metallic taste in the mouth
- Seizures (in advanced cases)
Protecting Your Kidney Health
While not all cases of kidney failure can be prevented, many are avoidable with proactive lifestyle choices. To reduce your risk:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Limit processed foods and excessive protein intake
- Stay physically active and avoid prolonged periods of sitting
- Manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Drink enough water
- Limit alcohol and avoid smoking
- Reduce stress
Kidney health is too important to ignore—especially now that the condition is no longer confined to older populations. Let’s spread awareness and encourage healthy habits among friends and family.
Share this article with your loved ones—it could save a life.
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