Browsing: Kidney Health

The weight-loss drug Ozempic is well-known for its effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding significant weight loss. Additionally, it has recently been linked to unexpected pregnancies and new health benefits. Several women reported surprise pregnancies after using the drug. Concurrently, recent studies also suggest Ozempic could reduce the risk of kidney disease progression in diabetic patients.

Chronic Kidney Disease, often abbreviated as CKD, is a condition characterised by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. The kidneys, a pair of bean-shaped organs below the ribcage, are essential in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. When CKD progresses, it can lead to kidney failure. When that happens, it necessitates dialysis or a kidney transplant. For this article, we consulted with Dato’ Dr. Ong  Yoke Meng. Dato’ Dr Ong is a nephrologist & physician at Island Hospital, Penang. He retired from the Ministry of Health (MOH) in 2022, where he served as the Head of Nephrology Services and the Head of the Department of Medicine at Penang Hospital.

In an unprecedented feat, a team of medical experts from Universiti Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) successfully performed a kidney transplant on an HIV patient, marking a first in Malaysian medical history. Six months after the operation, the patient is thriving, and the landmark case has sparked vital conversations about healthcare equality and discrimination.

Addison’s disease, also referred to as primary adrenal insufficiency, is a relatively rare condition where the adrenal glands fail to produce adequate amounts of steroid hormones. The disease can have profound implications, but patients can lead a normal life with timely diagnosis and proper management. Medical Channel Asia invites Dr Ben Ng, Consultant Endocrinologist at Arden Endocrinology Specialist Clinic Mount Elizabeth Novena, to provide key insights to this condition.

Pregnancy is a significant milestone in many people’s lives, but for individuals with Polycystic Kidney Disease, it comes with unique considerations and potential challenges. While Polycystic Kidney Disease does not necessarily prevent pregnancy, careful planning and close medical supervision are essential to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. This is a follow-up to an earlier guest column by Dr Francisco Salcido-Ochoa that you can find here.

Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease, commonly referred to as ADPKD or simply Polycystic Kidney Disease, stands as a notable hereditary condition stemming from genetic mutations responsible for maintaining the intricate structure of our kidneys. While statistical prevalence varies globally, it is estimated that around 5 to 10 cases per 10,000 births are affected by this condition – a figure that places it within the realm of relatively common disorders.

Uric acid is a compound that plays a significant role in the human body’s metabolism. It is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines, natural substances found in certain foods and cells. While it is essential for normal bodily functions, abnormal levels of uric acid can lead to health issues, including gout and kidney stones. Understanding what uric acid is, how it is formed, and its implications for health can help individuals make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle.