Cases of Kidney Diseases on the Rise

With more than 10,000 new Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients being registered with Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) each year, docotrs say that the disease burden is increasing in India. Diabetes and hypertension are the two important risk factors of CKD. Dr. Gupta, Head of the Department of Nephrology, PGI, said, “The burden of chronic kidney diseases is increasing. Every year, about 20,000 new patients are registered with the Renal clinic. Around 50 percent are suffering from CKD. Majority of these patients are in the advanced stage.”

CKD can be managed better if it is diagnosed early. "Because of lack of awareness, CKD is often diagnosed at the last stage. The treatment for the advanced stage (4-5) is renal transplant or dialysis. Many patients can not afford this treatment because it is expensive and because of shortage of donors," said Dr. Gupta.

According to surveys, the prevalence of CKD varies from 150 to 229 million of population in different states of India. Over 2 lakh people are added each year. Only 10% of the patients have access to dialysis and only 3% can afford a transplant. Around 85 to 90 % patients do not have access to transplants.

World Kidney Day is celebrated on the second Thursday of March. On the occasion of World Kidney Day on March 12, the department of nephrology, PGIMER, Chandigarh will launch World Kidney Day awareness campaign to spread awareness and identify kidney patients.

The awareness programme includes, two-day public education programme and free medical check-ups.

Advertisements

Source-Medindia