World Kidney Day: Expert urges early tests, healthy habits to prevent disease

World Kidney Day is observed every year on the second Thursday of March to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and the prevention of kidney-related diseases. This year, World Kidney Day falls on March 12. It reminds people to pay attention to their kidney health and adopt healthier lifestyles.

On the occasion, Dr Swapan Sood, consultant urologist and robotic surgeon, Patel Hospital, Jalandhar, shares insights on how to ensure good care of the vital organ.

Kidneys are vital organs that filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, regulate blood pressure, maintain electrolyte balance and support overall body functions. However, kidney diseases often develop silently and many people remain unaware of the problem until it reaches an advanced stage.

Globally, over 850 million people are affected by kidney diseases. One of the most common conditions is chronic kidney disease (CKD), which gradually damages kidney function and can eventually lead to kidney failure if not diagnosed early. Major risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking and a family history of kidney disease.

Early detection plays a crucial role in preventing complications. Simple tests such as blood tests, urine tests and regular blood pressure monitoring can help identify kidney problems at an early stage. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of kidney disease. Drinking adequate water, controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and avoiding unnecessary use of painkillers without medical advice are important steps to protect kidney health.

Treatment should be taken in a facility that offers a comprehensive chronic kidney disease care programme with advanced facilities for diagnosis and treatment of kidney and urological disorders and has services like kidney transplant, kidney cancer treatment, nephrectomy (kidney removal surgery), and advanced dialysis units for patients requiring regular support.

At times, patients have to go for specialised treatments for various kidney and urinary tract conditions, including kidney stone management with advanced laser surgery (RIRS, PCNL, URS), treatment for urinary tract infections, prostate disorders, minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic kidney surgeries, management of kidney obstruction and reconstructive urological procedures. Modern technology with minimally invasive techniques ensure better outcomes and faster recovery for patients.