New Delhi. March is National Kidney Month and March 11 is World Kidney Day. We all want that our kidneys to last for a lifetime. We all should show our love for kidneys by adopting 10-step program for protecting kidney health, said Padma Shri and Dr B C Roy Awardee Dr KK Aggarwal President Heart Care Foundation of India and Dr N P Singh (Nanu), Professor of Medicine, Maulana Azad Medical College and associated Lok Nayak Hospital. New Delhi.

One should begin with monitoring blood pressure and controlling weight and then move on to the rest of the kidney-healthy tips.

1. Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol.

2. Control weight.

3. Don't overuse over-the-counter painkillers.

4. Monitor blood glucose.

5. Get an annual physical exam.

6. Know if chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes or heart disease runs in your family. If so, you may be at risk.

7. Don't smoke.

8. Exercise regularly.

9. Follow a healthful diet.

10. Get tested for chronic kidney disease if you're at risk.