On the occasion of World Kidney Day, healthcare experts across India are highlighting the growing burden of kidney disease and urging people to prioritise kidney health through early screening, preventive care and healthy lifestyle choices. Doctors warn that kidney disorders often progress silently and remain undiagnosed until they reach advanced stages. Therefore, regular health check-ups and increased awareness are essential to detect kidney disease early and prevent serious complications.
Rising Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease
Kidney diseases are becoming increasingly common worldwide. However, many individuals remain unaware that they have a kidney problem, because the disease often develops without noticeable symptoms.
Highlighting this concern, Dr E. Ravi, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician at KIMS Hospitals, said, “Kidney diseases are becoming increasingly common, yet many people are unaware they have a problem because kidney disease often develops silently. Chronic Kidney Disease affects nearly 10–15% of adults worldwide. The most common risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, smoking, family history of kidney disease and long-term use of certain painkillers or other nephrotoxic medicines.”
Importance of Early Detection and Screening
Dr Ravi further explained, “The good news is that kidney disease can often be detected early. Simple tests such as blood creatinine to assess kidney function, urine tests for protein and regular blood pressure checks can help identify kidney disease in its early stages. People with diabetes and hypertension should undergo regular screening, as they are at higher risk.
If kidney disease progresses to End‑Stage Kidney Disease, patients may require dialysis or kidney transplantation. However, there is a significant shortage of kidney donors, making prevention and early detection even more important.”
Preventive Lifestyle Measures for Kidney Health
Along with early diagnosis, doctors stress that healthy lifestyle habits play a crucial role in preventing kidney damage.
Dr Puneet Bhuwania, Consultant Nephrologist & Transplant Physician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road emphasised that prevention remains the most effective strategy for protecting kidney health. Doctors recommend maintaining regular physical activity, monitoring blood sugar and blood pressure levels, reducing salt intake, drinking adequate water, avoiding smoking and limiting the long-term use of over-the-counter painkillers.
Increasing Kidney Problems Among Younger Individuals
Another emerging concern is the growing incidence of kidney disease among younger populations. Experts warn that modern lifestyle habits are significantly contributing to this trend.
Commenting on the issue, Dr Amit Jain, Nephrologist from Apex Group of Hospitals said: “On World Kidney Day, it is worrying to see kidney problems appearing at a younger age. Many youngsters are unknowingly damaging their kidneys through unhealthy lifestyles—excess junk food, high salt intake, sugary drinks, poor hydration, lack of exercise and misuse of painkillers or supplements. Kidneys silently suffer for years before symptoms appear. Prevention must start early. Young people should prioritize balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate water intake and routine health check-ups. Protecting kidney health today is essential to avoid serious complications like chronic kidney disease and dialysis later in life.”
Regular Screening Is Essential for High-Risk Individuals
Emphasising on the importance of routine screening Dr Anant Kumar, Chairman – Urology, Renal Transplant and Robotics at Max Super Speciality Hospital, said, “Chronic kidney disease often progresses silently and remains undetected until it reaches advanced stages. Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity or a family history of kidney disease should undergo regular screening through simple tests such as blood creatinine, urine analysis and blood pressure monitoring. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in slowing the progression of the disease and improving patient outcomes.”
Raising Awareness Through Collective Efforts
Recognising the need for greater public awareness, healthcare organisations and industry leaders are also supporting initiatives that promote kidney health education.
Arjun Juneja, Chief Operating Officer of Mankind Pharma, highlighted the importance of awareness campaigns and said, “World Kidney Day serves as an important reminder that prevention and early detection are key to tackling the growing burden of kidney disease. By encouraging regular health screenings, promoting healthier lifestyle choices and raising awareness about kidney health, we aim to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward protecting their long-term health.”
A Call to Protect Kidney Health
As kidney disease continues to rise globally, medical experts emphasise that timely diagnosis, preventive care and healthier lifestyles can significantly reduce the risk of serious complications.
On this World Kidney Day, doctors encourage individuals to take proactive steps to protect their kidney health by undergoing regular medical check-ups, maintaining healthy habits and avoiding unnecessary medications. With early detection and sustained awareness, it is possible to prevent kidney disease progression and improve quality of life for millions of people.