Obesity can strain the kidneys through chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, increased blood pressure, and insulin resistance. (Envato Elements pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: Health experts are warning about the importance of addressing obesity, given the negative effects that excessive weight can have on the kidneys.
Consultant nephrologist and kidney transplant physician Dr Wong Hin Seng noted that obesity strains the kidneys through chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, increased blood pressure, and insulin resistance.
“Obesity doesn’t just lead to diabetes or high blood pressure: it has been linked to an increased risk of kidney stones and various types of cancer, including kidney cancer,” he said.
The Malaysian Dialysis and Transplant Registry 2023 reports that 56% of new dialysis cases arise from diabetes, followed by hypertension at 30% – highlighting the growing concern over kidney disease.
“These effects can lead to protein leakage in the urine, an early sign of kidney damage. Obesity increases the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and accelerates its progression. When the kidneys are under constant stress, they fail faster,” Wong cautioned.
Dr Wong Hin Seng.
He explained that the kidneys act as the body’s natural filters, removing waste and excess fluids, regulating blood pressure, and balancing electrolytes to ensure everything functions smoothly. However, these finely tuned organs can be overwhelmed by excess weight.
And while Malaysia’s vibrant food culture is deeply cherished, it also contributes to a growing health crisis, with over half the population (54.4 %) being overweight or obese.
This has led to more than two million people suffering from noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, which in turn increase the risk of CKD.
Wong warned that in those with obesity, kidney disease can remain undetected for years; by the time symptoms such as swelling or fatigue appear, it is often too late to reverse the damage.
He said younger Malaysians are increasingly affected by obesity-related kidney damage, which disruprts the most productive years of their lives and places significant strain on families, the healthcare system and the nation.
“If you’ve been obese since childhood or your teenage years, the negative impact on your kidneys begins early, and you may already be facing CKD in your 30s or 40s,” he added, citing the National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023, which found that 84% of adults aged 18 -24 are unaware they have diabetes.
According to Wong, advanced CKD (stages 4 and 5) often leads to complications such as limited physical activity and poor mental health. “Living with damaged kidneys is a daily challenge: it’s not just about surviving but also about losing the ability to fully enjoy life,” he said.
Malaysia’s round-the-clock food culture means people are able to eat at any time, even after midnight. (Bernama pic)
He attributes major changes in dietary habits and lifestyle choices for the increase in Malaysia’s obesity rate. Traditional diets, once rich in fibre and wholesome ingredients, have increasingly been replaced by processed foods and sugary drinks.
The obesity risk is worsened further by the decline in physical activity, as many children and adults have adopted more sedentary lifestyles with higher screen time rather than outdoor activities.
“Additionally, Malaysia’s round-the-clock food culture is a contributing factor. Food is available 24/7 here. People are tempted to eat at midnight, and young adults are working long hours where convenience trumps nutrition,” he said.
Wong stressed that early action against obesity – including swapping processed foods for fibre-rich options, reducing sugar, and staying active – can help prevent kidney disease. Regular health screenings are also crucial for early detection.
“Families must focus on balanced diets and encourage children to stay active from a young age. For those already dealing with obesity, small but consistent changes can help protect kidney health,” he concluded.
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