Kidney problems are becoming increasingly common, and it’s not just the elderly who are affected anymore. The cases of chronic kidney disease are continuously increasing even among young people. In Malaysia, chronic kidney disease is increasing rapidly among young adults. It is a matter of concern that now many people are suffering from kidney failure by the age of 40. According to experts, poor lifestyle, unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity are becoming the biggest reasons for this.
A cross-sectional study published in the journal Environment-Behavior Proceedings in April 2025 involved 1,391 adults from two states in Malaysia. This study found that despite the high incidence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in the country, there is very little awareness about it among the common people. This is why this disease is often not detected until it is too late.
Body transformation coach and fitness trainer Milo Yap spoke openly about this serious problem in an Instagram post. He wrote, “Three times a week, four hours each time… for the rest of his life. That’s dialysis. He’s only 40, and his kidneys have failed. People say, ‘At such a young age?’ But kidney disease is not caused by age.”
uncontrolled diabetes
According to Milo Yap, high blood sugar directly damages the kidneys. Many people remain pre-diabetic for years without knowing it. By the time symptoms appear, the kidneys are often 80 percent damaged. Diabetes is the main cause of kidney failure.
high blood pressure
People often think that if there are no symptoms, everything is fine. However, high blood pressure silently damages the delicate blood vessels of the kidneys, causing their gradual loss of function.
excessive use of painkillers
People often take painkillers (such as paracetamol, ibuprofen) without thinking for headaches, body aches or hangovers. Long-term use of these medicines can cause serious kidney damage.
Consumption of energy drinks and untested supplements
Gym goers often consume pre-workout drinks, energy drinks and non-regulated supplements. Some of these things can be toxic to the kidneys. Therefore, by taking any supplements without proper research, you are potentially harming your kidneys.
Water deficiency and high-protein diet
Not drinking enough water, relying solely on coffee or tea, and consuming too high-protein diets put additional stress on the kidneys. This increases the risk of stones, damage and ultimately kidney failure.
Warning signs of kidney damage
Milo Yap says if you have two or more of these symptoms, you should get tested immediately:
Foamy urine (protein leaking)
swelling in feet or ankles
constant fatigue
loss of appetite or nausea
frequent urination at night
Easy ways to keep your kidneys healthy
Get kidney function tests done regularly
Keep your blood sugar and blood pressure under control
Avoid taking painkillers unnecessarily
Drink 2-3 liters of plain water daily
Stay away from unregulated supplements and energy drinks
Finally, Milo Yap warned that your kidneys filter about 200 liters of blood every day. When they stop working, the body essentially poisons itself. In most cases, kidney failure can be avoided; It just requires taking the right steps at the right time.