Born Andy Nii Akrashie, OJ Blaq was a famous Ghanaian musician and actor who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry.
At the age of 40, the ‘Chale Wote’ hitmaker passed away on August 17, 2023. He revealed in 2016 that he suffered from a kidney-related disease. OJ Blaq attributed his double kidney failure to binge drinking and smoking.
Following his diagnosis, the “Me Wo Mma” singer was placed on dialysis and treatment. He later announced that he had been completely healed of the disease, an act he says was miraculous. It is unclear what may have caused his death.
Blaq is not the only entertainer who’s battled kidney-related diseases.
On April 12, 2016, on-screen persona and former President of the Ghana Actors Guild, Nii Odoi Mensah passed away in China, where he had gone for a kidney transplant.
Yaw Donkor popularly known as Nkomode, a Ghanaian comedian also died on February 5, 2016, after battling renal-related problems.
READ MORE: He Was A Great Soldier of God’s Kingdom – Gideon Danso Pays Tribute to OJ Blaq
Another Ghanaian veteran performer, Kofi Middleton Mends passed away in 2016 after a long battle with renal disease, and in March last year, Ghanaian music producer and sound engineer Eyoh passed away after battling with kidney disease.
While these entertainers will forever remain in our hearts, we wanted to bring you five things you can do you ensure your kidney health.
Maintaining kidney health is crucial for overall well-being. Here are five simple yet effective steps you can take to ensure optimal kidney health.
Stay Hydrated- Adequate water intake helps your kidneys function properly by flushing out waste and toxins from your body. Aim to drink enough water throughout the day.
Eat a Balanced Diet- A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats supports kidney health. Reduce your salt intake to help prevent high blood pressure, a leading cause of kidney problems.
Control Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure- High blood sugar and hypertension can damage your kidneys over time. Manage your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes and monitor your blood pressure regularly. Follow your doctor’s recommendations and take prescribed medications if needed.
Exercise Regularly- Engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure, and improve overall circulation. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day.
Limit Alcohol and Avoid Smoking: Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can harm your kidneys and contribute to kidney disease. Limit alcohol intake and seek support if you’re trying to quit smoking or alcoholism.
Remember, preventive measures play a crucial role in maintaining kidney health. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help detect and address any potential kidney issues early on. By adopting these simple habits, you can actively promote the well-being of your kidneys and enjoy a healthier life.
By Boafo Regina Yaa Kyerewah|3Xtra.tv|Ghana