With increasing life expectancy and the prevalence of lifestyle diseases, India has seen a significant increase in the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is currently one of the most commonly occurring non-communicable diseases in India. The most common cause of CKD in population-based studies is diabetes. Recent studies have also shown that even rising air pollution is a factor in increasing the risk of chronic kidney diseases.
With the increasing incidence of CKD, the number of patients undergoing dialysis in India is also increasing by ten to 15 per cent every year. This percentage includes many children as well. Unfortunately, despite its steady increase, kidney disorders are still not a high priority condition in India. The condition is further worsened by a shortage of operational beds in hospitals and shortage of doctors and paramedics. The economic factor of treatment and management of CKDs is also a major concern for patients and their families.
On the occasion of World Kidney Day, Dr. Umesh Gupta, Senior Consultant and Director, Nephrology and Renal Transplantation at Aakash Healthcare highlights the need for awareness about (CKD). “Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is incurable and progressive disease which decreases the function of kidney over a period of time and patient requires lifelong care and medical treatment. The kidney is made up of millions of tiny structures called nephrons that filter blood. If these nephrons got damaged, then it may affect the functioning of the kidney, which may also cause kidney disease,” he said.
Dr. Gupta, also stated that kidney disease has no sign and symptoms, it mainly affects people having hypertension and diabetes which is very common.
"Some uncommon symptoms are inflammation (glomerulonephritis), infections (pyelonephritis), blockage in the urinary system, and maximum intake of pain killers (NSAID). People, who are having a busy schedule and do not take properly balanced diet, are likely to be at a higher risk for kidney disease. Those who are more conscious about their fitness and take fitness supplements to get an attractive and muscular body are also at risk and these can over a period of time may lead to chronic kidney disease," he added.
Kidney diseases in India are increasing because of lifestyle factors leading to more chronic diseases like diabetes, renal stones and hypertension. Dr Siddharth Lakhani, Consultant Nephrologists and Transplant physician, Kohinoor Hospital, Mumbai said, “Unknown for chronic kidney diseases like chemical exposure to rural areas is also increasing which is leading to kidney damage. Protein and creatinine check on a yearly basis for all above twenty years of age should be done which may help in early detection and cure.”
To this Dr Bharat Shah, Nephrologist at Global Hospital Parel said: “The cause of rise of kidney disease is largely due to growing incidence and prevalence of obesity, diabetes and hypertension. And this is largely due to the current lifestyle where there is increased consumption of fast food and lack of daily exercise.”
