A health specialist emphasizes the significance of tackling obesity, since carrying too much weight can harm the kidneys on its own, even in people who do not have related issues.
According to a statement from Prof Dr Wong Hin Seng—a Consultant Nephrologist and Kidney Transplant Physician at Sunway Medical Centre (SMC) within Sunway City—the strain placed on kidneys due to obesity arises via persistent inflammation, heightened oxidative stress, elevated blood pressure levels, and an increase in insulin resistance.
“Obesity not only contributes to diabetes or hypertension; it’s also associated with a higher likelihood of developing kidney stones as well as several forms of cancer, such as renal cancer," he explained.
Dr Wong stated that according to the Malaysian Dialysis and Transplant Registry for 2023, 56 percent of new dialysis patients have diabetes as the underlying cause, with hypertension accounting for another 30 percent—underscoring the increasing worry about kidney disorders.
These outcomes may result in proteins appearing in the urine, which is an initial indication of kidney harm. Excess weight raises the likelihood of developing long-term kidney ailment (CKD) and quickens its advancement. If the kidneys face persistent strain, their failure occurs more rapidly.
"The kidneys serve as the body’s innate filtration system, eliminating wastes and surplus liquids, controlling blood pressure, and maintaining electrolyte balance for smooth operation. Nonetheless, these meticulously calibrated organs can be burdened by excessive weight," he explained.
He highlighted that Malaysia's dynamic food culture is greatly valued, yet it simultaneously fuels an escalating health issue where more than half of the populace (54.4 percent) grapples with weight problems such as being overweight or obese.
As a result, over two million individuals have been afflicted with noncommunicable ailments like diabetes and high blood pressure, thereby heightening their susceptibility to chronic kidney disease.
Dr. Wong warned that individuals battling obesity may have their kidney disease go unnoticed for many years. By the time signs like swelling or exhaustion show up, the harm might be irreversible.
He mentioned that young Malaysians are being disproportionately impacted by obesity-induced kidney issues, which disrupts their peak productivity years and imposes considerable burden on families, the healthcare sector, and the country as a whole.
“If you've been overweight since childhood or adolescence, the adverse effects on your kidneys start quite early, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease when you reach your 30s or 40s," he stated, referencing the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023. The survey revealed that 84 percent of young adults between the ages of 18 and 24 remain oblivious to their diabetic condition.”
“Severe CKD (phase 4 and phase 5) frequently results in issues like restricted physical movement, deteriorated mental well-being, and diminished overall quality of life. Coping with impaired kidneys poses an ongoing daily struggle; it’s more than mere survival—it involves gradually losing the capacity to savor life completely," he stated.
Dr. Wong also pointed out significant shifts in eating patterns and life choices as key factors behind the alarming rise in obesity rates in Malaysia. As diets previously abundant in fiber and nutritious components have progressively been substituted with higher reliance on processed foods and sweet beverages, this transformation has contributed greatly to the issue.
The danger of obesity escalates due to the decrease in physical activity, as both children and adults tend towards more inactive habits characterized by increased screen time instead of engaging in outdoor pursuits such as playing football, riding bikes, or simply running about.
Moreover, Malaysia’s non-stop dining scene plays a role in this problem as well. Food is accessible around the clock. Should you feel like eating at midnight, meals are readily available, and many young adults work extended shifts where convenient options often take precedence over nutritious ones,” he explained.
Dr. Wong mentioned that taking early steps against obesity—such as replacing processed foods with high-fiber alternatives, cutting down on sugar intake, and maintaining an active lifestyle—can aid in preventing kidney disease.
Frequent health check-ups are equally important for detecting issues at an early stage.
Families should concentrate on nutritious meals and motivate kids to remain physically active from an early stage. For individuals who are already grappling with obesity, gradual yet steady modifications can aid in safeguarding renal function.
"He pointed out that reducing sugar intake doesn’t happen instantly. It takes time for your taste buds to adapt; eventually, you'll desire less sweet flavors," said BERNAMA.