Opening:          Chris Boland’s wordsmithing on The Piano Man was far superior to the group singing thereof.

 

Program:          Representing Northwest Kidney Center, Dr. Leann Tyshler presented convincing evidence of the growing incidence of kidney disease, the link between CKD (chronic kidney disease) and heart disease and how we can avoid it.

 

Ten years ago the US map showed a high incidence of CKD mainly in the southeast.  Now the incidence percentage is more equal across the country.  One in seven adult Americans has CKD.  Most don’t know it.

 

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the main causes of kidney disease.  Another major risk factor is being more than 60 years old.  [Not sure why she emphasized this point.] Even early kidney disease doubles your risk of heart disease. 

 

You can prevent or slow down CKD.  Here’s how:

• Get tested at your next physical

• Control high blood pressure

• Control diabetes

• Stop smoking

• Lose weight if you need to

• Eat a healthy, low-salt diet

• Exercise for at least 30 minutes, 5 days per week

• Limit alcohol  [Much to the joy of many Rotarians, Dr. Tyshler agreed that 2-3 glasses of red wine per day was good for us.]

 

Seattle had the first out-patient dialysis center in the world, starting in 1962.  Patients go 3-4 times per week for four hours.  Equipment is now available for dialysis at home.   Transplant is the best outcome for kidney disease, but not a cure.  Still need to take medication and it’s not for everyone. 

 

Club Business:  Andrea reported on memorable airplane trip to Friday Harbor with John Abbott.  President Al reminded members of their role in “set up and clean up” [come early, stay late, move lots of stuff] and “raffle duty” [bring something desirable for a prize].  Volunteers needed for Rotary First Harvest, Feb 13 in Kent.

 

 

Cherry L. Tinker

Cougar Cub Reporter