Kidney health isn’t something most people think about until a problem shows up, but the right checkups look different depending on your age. Building a few simple habits and screenings into each life stage can help protect kidney function for decades to come. Here’s what to watch for, from childhood through the senior years.
Childhood and Teens (Ages 0–17)
Good kidney habits start early. Encourage kids to reach for water instead of sugary soda, and treat strep throat promptly, as untreated infections can occasionally lead to a kidney complication called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Routine blood pressure checks should begin around age 3 or at yearly pediatric visits. For teens managing a chronic condition, this is also the time to start building independence: tracking their own medications and learning to schedule their own appointments.
Young Adulthood (Ages 18–39)
In your 20s and 30s, prevention is the name of the game. Get your blood pressure checked at least once every two years, and be mindful of regular NSAID use (like ibuprofen), which can strain kidneys over time. Cutting back on processed foods, added sugar, and excess salt, along with staying active and maintaining a healthy weight, goes a long way toward long-term kidney health.
Midlife (Ages 40–59)
This is when screening becomes more important. Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, so routine blood glucose or A1c testing matters. Keep up with yearly blood pressure checks, and ask your doctor about an eGFR blood test to measure how well your kidneys are filtering. If you take herbal or bodybuilding supplements, talk to your provider — some can affect kidney function.
Older Adulthood (Ages 60+)
In this stage, a yearly urine test (ACR) helps catch early protein leakage, often one of the first signs of kidney strain. Medication doses may need adjusting as kidney function changes, and managing cholesterol and cardiovascular health protects the blood vessels that supply the kidneys. Before any scan involving contrast dye, make sure your care team knows your kidney function.
The Bottom Line
Kidney health is a lifelong project, not a single checkup. Whatever stage you’re in, a few consistent habits and the right screenings can make a real difference down the road. If you have questions about your own risk factors, our team at ANC is here to help.
