South Africa:Healthy Living - 8th Nephrology Congress, 2015

The South African Post Office (SAPO) issued a set of five stamps and a commemorative envelope on 3 April 2015 to commemorate the World Congress of Nephrology.

Issue Description
The South African Renal Society has won the bid to host the prestigious (23rd International) 8th World Congress of Nephrology (WCN 2015). The event, to be held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 3 to 7 April 2015, is expected to attract between 5,000 and 6,000 delegates from all corners of the world. To coincide with WCN 2015 and raise awareness of kidney health.

Nephrology is a branch of medical science that deals with the study of the normal working of the kidneys, as well as its diseases. The kidneys are vital for a healthy life. Their complex network of blood vessels and intricate network of tubes and tubules cleanse the blood of waste products and excess water. The kidneys maintain the fluid, electrolytes, and acid-base regulation that are altered by several disease conditions, as well as drugs and toxins.

The biennial World Congresses of Nephrology - an initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) - are premiere educational events in nephrology that rotate between continents and are organised in collaboration with local and regional nephrology societies. The congress is aimed at the international nephrology community, as well as other healthcare professionals involved in multidisciplinary nephrology care; thus enabling professionals from all parts of the world to exchange views on a wide variety of topics affecting nephrology and those suffering from kidney disease around the world.

WCN 2015 was be hosted by the South African Renal Society in partnership with the African Association of Nephrology, and the Renal Care Society of South Africa. By bringing together practicing physicians, academics, scientists, international health authorities and clinical researchers, the congress offers a global forum for a free exchange of science and medical knowledge and strategies.

The aims of the South African Renal Society are to promote the profession of nephrology, facilitate cooperation and contact between all interested parties in the field of nephrology and related subjects, and to provide guidelines for the optimal care of renal patients.

Stamps
The stamps have a red and blue colour-scheme inspired by diagrams showing oxygenated blood (red) and deoxygenated blood (blue).

The stamps draw attention to steps that can be taken to lower the risk of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

Visit Your Doctor (International Small Letter)

In most cases, CKD cannot be completely prevented, but early detection can help you to manage the disease. If you have a long-term condition, such as diabetes, that could potentially cause CKD, it is important to manage it carefully. Follow the advice of your doctor and keep all appointments relating to your condition. People with diabetes are advised to have their kidney function tested every year.

Exercise (International Small Letter)

Exercise helps to lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of other diseases such as diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. This in turn reduces the risk of developing CKD, while helping to maintain a healthy weight. At least two and a half hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as cycling or fast walking, is recommended.

Healthy Diet (International Small Letter)

Eating a balanced diet will also help to prevent conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight, obesity and heart disease, which will reduce the risk of CKD. A balanced diet includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (five portions a day), fish, raw nuts and whole grains, as well as drinking plenty of water, limiting your salt and sugar intake and avoiding saturated fats.

Stop Smoking (International Small Letter)

Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks or strokes, and it can increase the likelihood that any existing kidney problems will get worse. If you stop smoking, you will improve your general health and reduce your risk of developing other serious conditions, such as lung cancer and emphysema.

Limit Alcohol (International Small Letter) Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause a rise in blood pressure as well as in the cholesterol levels in the blood. Following the recommended alcohol consumption limits is the best way to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure and the risk of CKD. Recommended limits for alcohol intake are three to four units of alcohol a day for men, and two to three units of alcohol a day for women.

First Day Covers
The first First Day Cover is a pictorial envelope with the four stamps from the issue affixed and postmarked. The second First Day Cover is a pictorial envelope with the Minisheet from the stamp issue affixed and postmarked.

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