Kidney disease is a public health concern in India, especially because the circulation has increased from 11.2% (2011-2017) to 16.38% (2018-2023) in persons aged 15 and above.

According to a recent study, published in nephrology, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is particularly severe in rural areas, where 15.34% of the population is affected compared to 10.65% in urban areas.

CKD occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter the waste with blood.

Early symptoms are often subtle, making it difficult to detect the disease before reaching a advanced stage. If left untreated, CKD can lead to complications such as hyperclamia (high potassium level), heart disease and kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a transplant.

On World Kidney Day, experts called for an immediate need for initial detection, better management and change in policy to reduce the burden of chronic kidney disease.

Experts stated that diabetes, high blood pressure, poor diet and obesity are the main factor behind the increasing prevalence of kidney disease.

The head of nephrology at Osmania General Hospital, Dr. Manisha Sahey said that processed foods, high salt intake and sugars diet contribute significantly to kidney damage.

“Diabetes and high blood pressure to prevent the disease require better awareness and early screening to manage effectively,” he said.

Regular screening for blood pressure, creatinine levels and urinary albumin can help quickly detect the disease. Dr. of Manipal Hospital, Kolkata. The Ranjan Sarkar stressed that without timely intervention, kidney disease can progress in a phase where only dialysis or a transplantation remains as treatment.

“Regular check -up and following the following treatments can slow down the disease progression and improve long -term health,” he said.

Many CKD patients in rural India struggle to use healthcare due to lack of experts and high travel costs.

Experts said that primary health centers need to have better clinical facilities to ensure preliminary treatment.

In addition, telemedicine and digital health solutions can improve kidney disease care by connecting patients from distant experts.

Nephroplas co-founder Kamal Shah, who has been on dialysis for 28 years, highlighted the need for a more patient-focused approach to CKD management.

“Effectively manage kidney disease requires constant patient education and strong coordination between experts and primary care providers,” Shah said.

As the cases grow, experts agree that prevention is more effective and inexpensive than late phase treatment.