With nearly 2 lakh new cases of kidney failure diagnosed annually in India, Chronic Kidney Disease is a growing health concern, writes ABHI SINGHAL
Nearly 210000 new cases of kidney failure are diagnosed annually in India highlighting the growing burden of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). A research paper 'Journey of a Patient with CKD in India' published by Kidney 360, a Nephrology Journal reveals that CKD is often diagnosed late in India. This delay stems from a lack of awareness and the absence of noticeable symptoms particularly with higher incidences of interstitial nephritis and CKD of unknown origin.
Our kidneys the silent workhorses of the body play an important role in filtering waste and maintaining overall health. World Kidney Day observed on March 12th every year, serves as a crucial reminder of their importance and the need to combat the growing prevalence of kidney disease.
Recently marking this significant day medical professionals highlighted the critical need for proactive kidney care. Dr Vikas Agarwal, Director & HOD - Robotic Urology, Kidney Transplant, Uro Oncology, Andrology & Male Infertility Kidney Transplant, Akash Healthcare speaking on the occasion emphasised that kidney health through exercise, hydration, and a vegetarian diet while avoiding junk food and preservatives. Early signs include swelling and fatigue, but routine kidney function and urine tests ensure early detection, especially for diabetics and hypertensives.
Dr Vikas Agarwal said, “If you talk about Indian transplant numbers, it goes around fifteen thousand per year, and most of them are living-related donors. If we talk about kidney health, we need to exercise daily, have a routine walk, and drink a lot of water to stay hydrated. We should decrease the amount of salt and sugar in our diet, consume more vegetarian food, and avoid junk food and preservatives.
Early Signs - If we talk about the early signs of kidney issues, swelling may occur, such as feeling your ring becoming tight or experiencing swelling in your legs, hands, or fingers. Other signs include early tiredness, low energy, and urine-related issues like frothy urine or microscopic abnormalities in a urine test.
Precautions - Diet and hydration play a crucial role in preventing kidney diseases. Proper hydration helps flush out waste and excess salt, reducing the risk of kidney stones and ensuring proper kidney function. A vegetarian diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables helps prevent kidney disease, while junk food, soft drinks like Coca-Cola, and alcohol should be avoided.
Most kidney diseases are diagnosed late due to a lack of awareness. Since we have two kidneys, they continue functioning until more than 50% of their capacity is lost, leading to late symptoms. The best way to detect kidney disease early is through a kidney function test and a urine routine test. Otherwise, symptoms appear only when significant damage has occurred, such as swelling around the eyes or extreme fatigue.”
