Imagine being told at 23 that your life is forever tethered to a machine, with no cure in sight. This is the stark reality for Kyle Terence Abanto, one of the growing number of young Filipinos diagnosed with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD5). But here's where it gets even more alarming: experts warn that this trend is largely driven by lifestyle choices, particularly the excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. And this is the part most people miss—the silent, often ignored symptoms that lead to a lifetime of dialysis or, if lucky, a kidney transplant.
Abanto’s story is a stark reminder of how quickly things can spiral out of control. At 23, he was chasing his dreams—aspiring to be a photographer, cinematographer, and more. But his diet, heavy on instant noodles, canned goods, and fast food, coupled with self-medication, took a toll he didn’t notice until it was too late. By the time he sought help, both his kidneys had failed, leaving him dependent on dialysis three times a week. The scars on his arms from catheter insertions are a visible testament to his struggle, a struggle shared by an estimated 7 million young Filipinos battling various stages of CKD.
But here’s the controversial part: while lifestyle choices are a major culprit, the lack of awareness and early detection plays an equally significant role. Many, like Abanto, ignore early symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and loss of appetite, attributing them to stress or exhaustion. By the time they seek medical help, the disease has often progressed to an irreversible stage. This raises a critical question: Are we doing enough to educate young people about the dangers of ultra-processed foods and the importance of regular health check-ups?
The shift in dietary habits over the past two decades has been dramatic. In the 1990s and early 2000s, glomerulonephritis, often linked to aging and pre-existing conditions like hypertension and diabetes, was the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. But by the 2000s, the Filipino diet began to mirror Western eating habits, with a preference for fast, ultra-processed, and high-sodium foods. This change has contributed significantly to the rise in CKD cases, particularly among the young. According to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Asia-Pacific region has seen the fastest growth in the consumption of ultra-processed products, with sales per capita increasing by 82.6% from 2000 to 2013.
Here’s another point to ponder: While North America has seen a decrease in ultra-processed food consumption, lower-middle-income countries like the Philippines continue to see a rise. By 2035, Southeast Asia’s consumption of these unhealthy foods is expected to rival that of high-income countries. This trend is not just a health issue; it’s a socioeconomic one, with families struggling to afford the steep costs of lifelong dialysis, estimated at around P1 million annually, even with government assistance.
The emotional and psychological toll of CKD cannot be overstated. Abanto’s battle with anxiety and depression, triggered by physical changes and the realization of his limited future, is a common experience among young CKD patients. Studies show that 30 to 60 percent of dialysis patients exhibit symptoms of clinical depression, often exacerbated by feelings of guilt and financial burden. This emotional distress can lead to delayed treatments, skipped medications, and a reliance on ineffective alternative therapies.
Despite these challenges, Abanto remains hopeful, inspired by the support of his family, loved ones, and even his employer. He continues to work during his dialysis sessions, determined not to become a burden. Through his social media content, he has connected with other young CKD patients, offering them hope and inspiration. But this raises a final, thought-provoking question: If more young people were aware of the risks associated with their lifestyle choices, could we prevent the rise of CKD and spare them a lifetime of suffering? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
