Kidney diseases growing public health concern

Chronic kidney disease is a global health burden, with 850 million people affected worldwide. The burden of kidney disease is increasing, with almost 21,000 new cases being diagnosed every year. In India, its prevalence has increased from 12 per cent to 16 per cent between 2018 and 2023, indicating a growing public health concern. The most important causes of kidney diseases are diabetes and hypertension.

With growing industrialisation and modernisation, various other causes of kidney disease have been identified, including gym supplement use and nephropathy, alternative medicines, over-the-counter drugs, obesity, drug addiction, heat stress nephropathy in extreme environments and environmental pollution.

Kidney diseases are a global burden on healthcare resources of any country in the world. The disease is usually relentlessly progressive and prevention is the key. There are eight golden rules to prevent kidney disease, which include adequate hydration, stopping smoking, avoiding alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding over-the-counter drugs (self-medication), controlling your blood pressure, keeping control over your blood sugar levels, and avoiding cold drinks and sugary beverages.

Early detection allows timely intervention and can significantly improve outcomes. Leading a healthy lifestyle plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your kidneys. Staying hydrated, cutting down on salt intake, maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise and avoiding excessive use of painkillers can all contribute to kidney health.

My sincere advice to those with diabetes, hypertension or a family history of kidney disease is that they should get themselves screened by regular health check-ups. Three simple tests, like renal function tests (blood urea and serum creatinine), urine examination and an ultrasound of the kidneys, can help detect most kidney problems at an early stage, which can help plan strategic care.

In this particular hot and humid climate, I would suggest staying hydrated, wearing breathable, light-colored cotton clothes, avoiding over-the-counter drugs and painkillers, and avoiding caffeine-containing sugary drinks like cold drinks to keep your kidneys healthy.

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