It often comes as a surprise to find out that a person could lose 80 per cent of kidney function before symptoms are experienced, and by then it's serious.
The 2014 Interactive Health Fair is presented in honour of the Kidney Foundation of Canada's 50th anniversary, hosted by the Prince George chapter, on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 950 Kerry Street in AiMHi's gymnasium.
Prevention and awareness is the key when it comes to kidney disease.
For that reason, there will be targeted screening for kidney function for people who are at greatest risk, which includes those with diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, family history of kidney disease, ancestry that is Asian, South Asian, Aboriginal, Hispanic, Polynesian or African and anyone 55 years and older.
As with many volunteers, when people need the services of an organization they tend to give back to it and such is the case with Randy Sokolowski, president of the Prince George chapter of the Kidney Foundation of Canada, BC Branch.
"I was diagnosed with kidney disease in 1990," said Sokolowski. The diagnosis came by accident when he applied for a life insurance policy. A simple test found protein in his urine. He followed up with the doctor and confirmed he had kidney disease.
About five years ago Sokolowski attended his first chapter meeting and took on the role of president two years ago when he retired.
"For me, finding out that I had the disease early enough helped delay its progression," said Sokolowski. Lifestyle changes like eating well and exercising can help.
"That's the idea behind the 2014 Health Fair - early detection," said Sokolowski. "It's a good opportunity to make people aware of kidney disease and the earlier the diagnosis the better chance they have of delaying the progression of it."
During the Health Fair there are interactive events like the targeted screening for kidney function for those at greatest risk, including blood pressure and blood glucose testing, cholesterol testing and bone density testing. As well, there will be guest speakers, a kidney patient panel and a kids corner play area.
Guest speakers start at 1 p.m. and include local MLA Shirley Bond, followed by Dr. Robin Lowry, and pharmacist Joanne Tabora.
Many health groups will be participating and there will be refreshments, door prizes and freebies. Everyone is welcome to attend.
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