Filters your blood (up to 180 litres of fluid daily)

Removes harmful waste and excess fluid to the bladder

Produces hormones that help to regulate blood pressure

High sugar levels, i.e. diabetes

High blood pressure 

Long-term use of certain medication, such as ibuprofen

Acute: A sudden loss of kidney function caused by stressors such as illnesses or toxins. Kidney function is usually reversible. Treatment options: antibiotics to prevent infections or diuretics to eliminate excess fluid

Symptoms of acute kidney failure: occasional decreased urine output, fluid retention in the feet or legs, drowsiness, nausea or fatigue

Chronic: A slow process where kidneys lose their ability to function. May be contained from reaching end stage. Treatment options: controlling symptoms and complications, slow progression of disease

Symptoms of chronic kidney failure: Swelling in the feet or legs, drowsiness, blood in the stool, excessive thirst 

End-Stage: Kidneys have permanently shut down. Require dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Symptoms of end-stage kidney failure: Nausea, vomiting, making little or no urine, swelling around the eyes or ankles

14 out of 100,000 Malaysians suffer from kidney failure

Malaysia has 6,000 new dialysis patients each year

98% of people on the organ donor waiting list are kidney failure patients (The Star)

Stop smoking

Reduce salt intake

Control diabetes and high blood pressure

Exercise and maintain a healthy weight