Editor, Author at NephroPlus | India's largest network of dialysis centres

NephroPlus engages with dialysis patients in Bangalore through its funeducation initiative, ‘Aashayein.’

350 dialysis patients in Bangalore were taught how to better manage their condition for an improved quality of life

Bangalore, November 9, 2022: India’s leading network of dialysis centres, NephroPlus, hosted its flagship fun-and-entertainment ‘Aashayein’ event exclusively for dialysis patients in Bangalore last Sunday. The event witnessed the participation of over 200 dialysis patients as they gathered to join the brand’s spirit to build a competent and compassionate community of renal patients to upgrade dialysis care in India.

The event was filled with interactive and engaging activities such as stage games which involved putting the balls in a jar, and the one who puts the maximum wins. Furthermore, following the concept of an edutainment program, various medical experts from reputed institutes and hospitals addressed the participants with the need and significance of renal transplant, the ill-effects of ABO incompatible transplant, understanding of complex kidney issues, how to increase the shelf life of an AV Fistula, and how to boost the mental health when dealing with diseased life.

Witnessing the response received for the event, Mr. Kamal D. Shah, Co-Founder, NephroPlus remarks, “With a vision to enable kidney patients to resume their daily joys and their regular regime, NephroPlus offers the most comfortable and convenient dialysis procedures across 300 centres all over Asia. Our flagship program, Aashayein, will allow us to engage with the dialysis population and connect with them and their families on the ground beyond the clinical barrier. Such events allow us to put our brand philosophy to action and upgrade the services to align our mission of having a patient-centric approach.”

The event’s highlight was when an 82-year-old dialysis survivor visited the event to uplift the confidence and morale of other young dialysis patients. NephroPlus served an elaborate renal-friendly diet for all the guests, followed by a session of gift distribution to express its gratitude.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 294 dialysis centres in more than 180 cities across 25 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus Launches Dialysis Clinic in Hisar

Hisar NephroPlus, a leading provider of world class dialysis care, proudly announces the inauguration of its latest clinic at the esteemed Jindal Institute of Medical Sciences (JIMS) in Hisar’s Model Town, representing a significant milestone in their commitment to providing quality healthcare services.

The dialysis clinic at JIMS is a private healthcare facility with a total of 580 beds, and is renowned for its dedication to providing high quality medical services to the community. It features a midsize facility with 11 beds, equipped to provide patients in need of dialysis. The dialysis clinic at JIMS is a private healthcare facility with a total of 580 beds, and is renowned for its dedication to providing high quality medical services to the community. with excellent care.

Specialized operations like Jugular Catheterization, Femoral Catheterization, Permacaths Procedure, Hemodiasis, and Plasma Pheresis are conducted in this clinic, ensuring comprehensive and advanced care for patients with diverse medical needs.

While sharing his views on the same, Mr. Kamal D Shah, Co-Founder of NephroPlus said, “We are delighted to bring our expertise in dialysis care to Hisar through our partnership with Jindal Institute of Medical Sciences. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with renal health challenges by ensuring patient centric care and treatment with continuous development and with plans for ongoing enhancements and expansions every quarter.

NephroPlus remains committed to improving healthcare comes while positively impacting the lives of the people in our community.

NephroPlus opens advanced dialysis clinic in Himmatnagar at Avishkar Hospital

Himmatnagar, Gujarat, May 22,2024: NephroPlus, Asia’s leading dialysis network, is proud to announce the opening of its latest state of the art dialysis clinic in Avishkar Hospital, GIDC, Motipura, Himmatnagar, Gujarat. This new clinic aims to provide world class dialysis care to patients in the region. The Avishkar Dialysis Clinic at Himmatnagar is equipped with cutting edge facilities that includes the availability of a Positive Dialysis machine. This advanced technology allows HCV-positive patients to undergo dialysis in isolation.

Quadria Cap Picks up Minority Stake in NephroPlus

Mumbai: NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis chain, said it has raised $103 million (860 crore) in a Series F funding round from Quadria Capital through a mix of fresh capital infusion and a secondary sale aimed at driving expansion plans within India and targeted markets overseas.

The primary component is 100 crore. Quadria will become a minority shareholder post the latest round of funding which valued NephroPlus at more than 2,000 crore. Quadria will have a slightly higher stake than Bahrain based Investcorp, which was the largest shareholder in the company prior to the latest round at 35-40%. Other existing investors comprising US-based Bessemer Venture Partners (BVP), International Finance Corporation (IFC) and IIFL also pared their stakes in the latest round.

ET in January reported on Quadria being in talks to buy NephroPlus at 2,000 crore ($250 million) valuation. Founded in 2009 by Vikram Vuppala, Sandeep Gudibanda and Kamal Shah, NephroPlus has a network of 440 dialysis chains across 20 states in India and four countries the Philippines, Nepal, Uzbekistan, and Saudi Arabia. It posted revenue of ₹550 crore in FY24, recording 25% growth.

This new funding will fuel our organic growth plans while allowing us to make significant acquisi tions, putting us at the forefront of dialysis healthcare innovation,” Vikram Vuppala, NephroPlus founder and CEO, told ET.

In 2021, NephroPlus raised $24 million (180 crore) in a Series E funding round led by IIFL Asset Management along with existing investors Investcorp and BVP.

To date, the company has raised about $104 million through several rounds.

In January 2023, NephroPlus received about 70 crore loan from Asian Development Bank for expanding in Uzbekistan.

NephroPlus acquires RTSI of Philippines

Hyderabad: Dialysis care provider NephroPlus on Wed- nesday said it has acquired Philippines-based Renal The- rapy Solutions Inc (RTSI), which has six clinics, for an undisclosed amount.

NephroPlus said the acqu- isition makes it the third lar- gest dialysis network in Philippines.

NephroPlus founder & CEO Vikram Vuppala said the acquisition marks a signifi- cant milestone in the compa- ny’s global expansion strate- gy and solidifies its presence in Philipplines. “The addition of RTSI’s six well-established clinics enhances NephroPlus’ ability to reach and serve a broader community, particularly in key locations such as Caloocan, Novaliches, Baco- lod, Mindoro, and Bohol.

NephroPlus hosts Inspiring event in Waghodia on the occasion of World Kidney Day Waghodia

NephroPlus, a leading healthcare provider specializing in kidney care, is proud to announce a momentous celebration in honor of World Kidney Day that falls on 14th March, 2024. The event, held at NephroPlus Waghodia clinic, witnessed an impressive turnout with over 80 guests joining in for an evening filled with inspiration, awareness, and entertainment. One of the event highlights was the remarkable narrative delivered by a resilient 21-year-old woman. Despite being on dialysis, she exudes persistent optimism and determination. Her brave journey and upbeat attitude inspired all guests, demonstrating the fortitude that can be discovered even in the face of kidney-related obstacles. The celebration aimed to build a sense of community and solidarity, as well as raise awareness. Guests were treated to a variety of performances, including soulful singing, engaging activities, and from touching stories told by individuals who took their own path from the beginning of dialysis to the present day. These personal experiences highlighted the power and resilience of the kidney health community. The event also featured motivational speeches from honored guests, as well as a detailed awareness discussion by our Senior Nephrologist, who underlined the importance of kidney health for everyone. The program sought to provide guests with knowledge and encourage proactive ways to protect their kidney health.

NephroPlus hosts conference – Top clinical experts discuss the vexing issue of Hepatitis C infection in Hemodialysis patients on ‘World Hepatitis Day’ and solutions across practice settings

~HCV Seroprevalance in those on Maintenance Hemodialysis is 20%~
~Indian patients on hemodialysis are increasing at 25 % per year~
~Majority of the burden (88%) is hidden in the low-risk population who are not screened for HCV~

Hyderabad, 28th July 2022 – To mark this year’s World Hepatitis Day, NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network, hosted a webinar in collaboration with leading Nephrologists, Researchers, Hepatologists, and Clinicians on Tuesday 26th July 2022. The experts on the panel discussed risk factors identified for high incidence of HCV infection in HD (Haemodialysis) patients; the most important ones are the number of blood transfusions, duration of the hemodialysis treatment, and nosocomial transmissions due to inadequate infection-control measures.

The global prevalence of hepatitis C is estimated to be 3%, with 12.5 million people in India alone infected with the virus. It is also important to note that Hepatitis C is the most common hepatotropic viral infection that affects patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Furthermore, HCV infection in HD patients has been associated with high morbidity and mortality.

This knowledge-sharing session also brought together the country’s most reputed clinicians to talk about Hepatitis, its impact on dialysis patients, dialysis centres, and potential solutions. NephroPlus emphasized the importance of managing Hepatitis through a multidisciplinary approach for hemodialysis patients through this exclusive virtual event during the sessions. The subject matter experts shared their experience in real patient care settings and, coupled with insights from their academic and research work, emphasized the need for strict implementation of and adherence to infection control practices during Dialysis to prevent transmission of blood-borne pathogens such as HCV in hemodialysis patients

In his talk, Dr. Vivekananda Jha, Executive Director, George Institute for Global Health India, and a Professor of Nephrology at the University of Oxford, described the correlation between Hepatitis C and kidney diseases. “Hepatitis plays a vital role in patient’s lives with kidney diseases. We all know kidney disease by itself is complex. Serious health conditions such as kidney diseases make patients more vulnerable to liver infections, including Hepatitis C and other liver infections. However, Hepatitis is a condition that can be treated by proper medication. Medical science has made immense progress, and we are in a fortunate position to be able to either prevent or treat hepatitis C. For hepatitis B, we have accines available. All chronic kidney patients should be vaccinated against HBV,”

Echoing his thoughts, eminent Nephrologist Dr. Sanjay Agarwal, Professor and Head of Nephrology at All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), commented, “The HCV infection can be diagnosed by detecting anti-HCV antibodies in the patient. Various factors that affect the magnitude of HCV infection include the geographic distribution of population, duration of Dialysis for a patient, a pool of HCV patients in a dialysis unit/clinic, practice patterns, number of blood transfusions inpatient, co-infection with other viruses, and tests employed for diagnosis. It is to be noted that the longer the duration of Dialysis for a patient, the higher the risk of HCV infection.”

One study by Dr. Sanjay Agarwal and two other authors revealed that a “marked increase of HCV infection among patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) was likely to be due to nosocomial spread, indicating that patients who spent long periods on hemodialysis were more likely to develop HCV Infection.

While discussing the clinical features of HCV infection, Dr. Agarwal further highlighted that “the Majority of HCV patients are asymptomatic, and transmission is less where isolation is practiced. Therefore, HCV infection has become the most prevalent hepatotoxic viral infection in Maintenance Haemodialysis (MHD) patients. In India, HCV prevalence in hemodialysis ranges from 4.3 to 45%, while the global average is 6 to 60%, making it an alarming health crisis in the renal space. Furthermore, the situation needs to be addressed because hemodialysis patients with HCV have a higher mortality risk than HCV-negative patients.”

According to the experts, treatment HCV is now highly safe and effective, made possible with orally administered drugs called DAA (Direct Acting Anti-Viral Drugs) with a 90-95% cure rate after 3-6 mths of treatment, available at a fairly low price in India. The National Viral Hepatitis Control Program (NVHCP) launched on 28th July 2018 by the Govt. of India has also achieved some remarkable goals that include 1.3 lacs of cured patients and 2-3 lacs of population has been undergoing treatment .

The discussion also called for regular counselling to help patients understand the situation’s complexity and the need to act fast. In addition, the experts present noted that it is important that the patients maintain a positive mental attitude and adhere to regular testing and follow-up.

Adding further to the session, Dr. Suresh Sankar, Senior Vice President, Clinical Affairs at NephroPlus, commented, “The webinar provided an opportunity for experts to discuss the very worrisome findings and chart a way forward. We always want to be at the forefront of conversations that seek the betterment of dialysis care in India and beyond. NephroPlus has seen a decline in the prevalence of Hepatitis C in its network. There has been a 65% decrease in prevalence over 10 years. However, the increase in the absolute number of patients on Dialysis is growing, especially in smaller towns, and comes with unique challenges. We at NephroPlus recognize Hepatitis C infection as a significant health impact factor and have a diligent screening, prevention, and surveillance policy for BBV infection to improve patient safety by special infection control measures. In addition, we have stratified centres by prevalence % (centres > 10% of patients are recognized as high-risk centres per KDIGO 2018)—initiatives in such centre to mitigate risks of Hep C transmission. We are committed to the cause of preventing Hep C in Dialysis patients. We are happy to support other dialysis centres to set up a Hep C surveillance, prevention, and treatment program.”

The webinar, conducted to mark World Hepatitis Day, was co-chaired by Prof. Vivekanand Jha, Executive Director at The George Institute for Global Health, and Dr. Sanjeev Saxena, Chairman & Senior Consultant PSRI, New Delhi. Eminent Speakers – Dr. Sanjay Agarwal, Prof. & Head Nephrology at AIIMS, Dr. Amit Goel, Additional Professor, Department of Gastroenterology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, and the panel discussion constituted – Dr. Anupama Y. J, Head of Department of Nephrology Nanjappa Hospital, Shimoga, Dr. Manisha Sahay, Nephrologist and Head of Department of Nephrology Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, Dr. Neeru Aggarwal, Clinician, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali, Ghaziabad, and Dr. Chandan Chaudhari, Consultant Nephrologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, South Mumbai

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 290 dialysis centres in 180 cities across 25 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on Dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments. For further information:https://www.nephroplus.com/

The Connection between Gut Health and Kidney Health: Dietary Tips for Dialysis Patients

Caring for your kidneys isn’t just about managing your dialysis for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) patients—it’s also about paying attention to your gut. Recent studies have discovered a powerful link between gut health and kidney function. By focusing on this connection, you can make smarter dietary decisions that support both your kidneys and your overall health.

Chronic kidney disease, CKD, is among the leading diseases killing over 800 million people worldwide being a major world’s public health challenge. According to the Global Burden of Disease System, CKD was a cause of 1. 2 million deaths. COVID-19 has intensified the risk of CKD; further, estimates suggest that it may rank 13th among the leading causes of mortality in 2030 and the fifth in 2040 at the global level. Investigators also indicated that CKD might become the 13th leading cause of death by 2030 and the fifth most prevalent cause of death by 2040 globally. This highlights the urgent need for enhanced understanding and effective management of CKD to mitigate its devastating impact on global health.

The Gut-Kidney Axis

Gut health refers to the state of one’s stomach or intestines. The immune system, hormone regulation, digestion, and other bodily processes all depend on this balance, which makes it crucial. Our gut contains a diverse community of microorganisms known as the gut microbiota, which play a major role in our overall health. Recent study has supported current research papers discussing the significance of the gut in cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD). For example, there is evidence linking kidney illness to the gut microbiota and a specific bacterium called Ruminococcus bromii. It reacts chemically with a variety of bodily components and could be the cause of the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Dietary Tips for Dialysis Patients

So, what can you do to promote a healthy gut-kidney connection? Here are some dietary tips to get you started:

High Fiber Food: Fiber primarily helps to regulate the makeup and activity of the gut microbiota and helps to get rid of micro-inflammatory processes. Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and other natural foods without additives.

Include probiotics: The human body needs probiotics, or good bacteria, to keep the intestines balanced and healthy. Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are some healthy foods that might help you rebalance the bacteria in your stomach.

Stay hydrated: Drinking water is crucial for digestion and kidney function, aiding in constipation and performing essential kidney functions. Dialysis patients should aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily, with doctor restrictions on daily fluid intake affecting the number of glasses.

Limit processed foods: Most of the foods that are packaged are rich in additives, salt, and sugar which are not only bad for the intestines, but also have adverse effects on the kidneys.

Cook with herbs and spices: Some of the herbs that are good for gut and kidney health include; turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon to mention but a few.

Manage Salt Intake: While salt is a vital mineral, excessive consumption can harm kidney health and have other adverse effects on the body. It’s unhealthy to consume too much salt, particularly if you use dialysis. Aim to use no more than 5 grams of salt per day. Ask your doctor how much salt is safe for you.

It has been observed beyond doubt that the health of the gut is linked with the health of the kidneys. Therefore, dialysis patients need to make correct nutrition choices to enhance the gut-kidney health they have. And so, of course, as they say, ‘Every bite counts’, and gut health matters a lot as it promotes kidney health.

Transforming Dialysis Care: Leveraging Digital Innovations and Strategic Partnerships to Enhance Patient Outcomes and Operational Efficiency

Mr. Kamal D Shah, Co-Founder, NephroPlus

With the global rise in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and an ageing population, the demand for dialysis is higher than ever in India. This situation calls for continuous evolution and innovation within the industry to meet the increasing needs effectively. The significance of dialysis extends beyond its immediate life-saving capabilities and the dialysis industry stands at a pivotal point, where embracing change is crucial to shaping a future that prioritizes patient well-being and operational efficiency.

Traditional Dialysis method and how emerging innovations closes the gap

Traditionally, dialysis has played a vital role in substituting the filtration function of failing kidneys, allowing patients to manage their symptoms and sustain life. Conventional dialysis methods, while lifesaving, often struggle with challenges like limited accessibility, high costs, and inconsistent patient adherence. The rigidity of in-centre dialysis schedules and the lack of portability have imposed significant constraints on patients’ quality of life, restricting their autonomy and flexibility. The necessity for innovation is clear: we must look beyond the status quo and embrace the transformative power of technology. Adapting to digital innovations is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a revolution in care.

Recent advancements in renal replacement therapy are promising to address these limitations and redefine the landscape of dialysis care. According to a recent report by ICMR, the introduction of newer technologies has led to incremental improvements in access, with estimates suggesting a 10%-15% increase in the number of patients receiving treatment in areas where these innovations are implemented.

Digital Innovations and Breakthrough Technologies

Digital innovations address challenges by making dialysis care more accessible and cost-effective. Telemedicine and remote monitoring reduce the need for frequent hospital visits, lowering overall treatment costs. For example, closing the barriers of distance as telemedicine initiatives in rural areas of India have significantly improved access to care for remote patients. Wearable devices and mobile health apps enhance patient engagement and self-management, leading to better adherence and outcomes. AI-driven analytics improve clinical decision-making, optimizing treatment efficacy and patient care.

There have been few innovations so far in the dialysis delivery process itself. Most of these innovations have centred around making dialysis machines smaller, more user-friendly so they can be used by the patients themselves and portable, enabling travel despite being on dialysis.

Hemodiafiltration (HDF), a therapy that merges hemodialysis and hemofiltration to effectively remove both small and middle-sized solutes from the blood as compared to conventional hemodialysis which removes mainly small-sized solutes is one innovation that is gaining adoption in many countries. This technique has also been associated with reduced inflammation, improved nutritional status, and better preservation of residual renal function. Hemodiafiltration is available in many dialysis centres in India as well, albeit at a higher cost than conventional hemodialysis.

The slow pace of innovation is thankfully, a thing of the past. There are several teams of researchers today working on radical ideas which have the potential to change the way we think about dialysis. Most of these are in various stages of development and clinical trials and could take a while to become available even in developed countries such as the US and take even longer to reach India.

Wearable Artificial Kidneys (WAKs): Represents a revolutionary leap, building on early concepts by pioneers like Willem Johan Kolff and Avrohom Blumenkrantz. Modern WAKs, such as the WAK 3.0, incorporate advanced miniaturization and biocompatible materials, although technical challenges persist.

Wearable Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) Systems: Devices like the Vicenza WAK and AWAK utilize sorbent technology to recycle dialysate, improving fluid management and solute clearance. These innovations enhance the practicality and patient-friendliness of PD, improving biocompatibility and toxin removal.

Bio-Artificial Kidneys: Exemplifies the potential of cell-based therapeutics in renal replacement therapy. By replicating the full range of kidney functions—filtration, metabolic regulation, and endocrine activity—bio-artificial kidneys offer a promising alternative to traditional dialysis. Devices such as the renal assist device, the bio-artificial renal epithelial cell system (BRECS), and the human nephron filter demonstrate the feasibility of integrating filtration and metabolic functions to address the complex needs of ESRD (end-stage renal disease) patients.

These innovations promise significant improvements in patients’ quality of life. As these technologies advance and eventually become available, they will bring new hope to dialysis patients in India, emphasizing the need to adapt our current model of care to integrate these ground breaking devices.

The Current State and Future Prospects

Partnerships between healthcare providers, technology companies, and policymakers have also made it a smooth transition for driving innovation and improving operational efficiency to take over. Collaboration will fuel the development of new technologies and ensures their successful integration into existing healthcare systems. These partnerships can also facilitate shared knowledge and resources, accelerating the pace of innovation in dialysis care.

The evolution of dialysis care reflects a profound shift in its goals—from merely managing symptoms to genuinely enhancing patients’ quality of life. Historically, the focus was on basic survival and comfort, but recent innovations have introduced biometric parameters that measure and optimize treatmenteffectiveness more precisely. As dialysis technology advances, it is crucial for people to embrace these changes as well, as it will foster a cooperative effort to provide better, more human-centric care.

There is hope for dialysis patients as the evolution of dialysis care reflects a profound shift in its goals—from merely managing symptoms to genuinely enhancing patients’ quality of life. Historically, the focus was on basic survival and comfort, but recent innovations have introduced biometric parameters that measure and optimize treatment effectiveness more precisely. As dialysis technology advances, it is crucial to pivot the model of care to incorporate these new devices. Embracing these changes will foster a cooperative effort to provide better, more human-centric care.

Source

National Library of Medicine: Recent innovations in renal replacement technology and potential applications to transplantation and dialysis patients: a review of current methods
National Library of Medicine: The current and future landscape of dialysis
Indian Council of Medical Research

Tobacco-Free Tomorrow: NephroPlus’s Vision on Anti-Tobacco Day

We live in an era where there is a strong emphasis on global health awareness campaigns, and Anti-Tobacco Day serves as a timely reminder of the ongoing issues faced by rising tobacco smoking among individuals. While the dangers to respiratory health are well-known, the impact on vital organs like the kidneys remains less discussed yet is equally concerning.

Understanding the Impact of Tobacco on Kidney Health

Tobacco is a significant risk factor for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). The World Health Organization (WHO) helps to point out the direct link between smoking and an increased risk of CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). A report by the National Kidney Foundation further reveals that smokers are more susceptible to proteinuria, a sign of potential kidney damage. Thus, raising awareness about this issue is crucial.

India’s Tobacco Production and Diversification Efforts

In addition to being a major consumer of tobacco, India stands as the second-largest producer globally, manufacturing 761,335 tons. The majority of this production is concentrated in three states, employing nearly 25 million people across the production value chain.

Recognizing the health and economic implications, the Indian Ministry of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers Welfare introduced a Crop Diversification Scheme under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna program. As of 2018, the government reported a diversion of 67,512 hectares, or 8.7% of designated tobacco-growing land, since 2015-2016.

In 2022, India’s unmanufactured tobacco production stood at approximately 2 thousand tons, representing 13.4% of the global production of 5.78 million tons. This marks an 11.9% increase from the 690.0 thousand tons produced in 2010. Moreover, India utilized an estimated 3 thousand hectares for tobacco cultivation in 2022, a 4.3% decrease from 2010.

The Need for Anti-Tobacco Initiatives

Despite increasing awareness, tobacco-related illnesses, including kidney diseases, continue to rise. WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2023 exposed the tobacco industry’s tactics to undermine smoke-free regulations. From discrediting evidence on secondhand smoke to promoting Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) as “clean” alternatives, these tactics demand vigilance from policymakers and the public alike. The industry also influences policy-making through lobbying, aiming to weaken tobacco control measures and undermine existing laws by promoting ENDS (Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems) through traditional and social media. Regulators must remain vigilant against these tactics to protect public health.

Driving Change through Awareness and Education

In the last 15 years, there has been significant progress in implementing smoke-free measures globally. In 2007, only 15 countries were believed to have 100% smoke-free cafés, pubs, and bars, a number which rose to 88 by 2022. Despite this, these venues remain the least protected under national laws. Meanwhile, in 2007, 81 countries had smoke-free healthcare facilities and 78 had smoke-free educational facilities. By 2022, these numbers increased to 142 and 149 countries, respectively. This significant increase underscores the growing global commitment to creating healthier environments by reducing exposure to second-hand smoke in crucial public spaces.

Embracing a Smoke-Free Future

I believe, that there’s a growing trend to extend smoke-free laws across various public venues and outdoor spaces globally. Also, as a doctor, I feel that we must empower people with information on the ill effects of smoking and the benefits of quitting. Hence, by providing accessible and effective smoking cessation support services such as counselling, medications, and hotlines one can ensure that these materials are widely available and cheap to all those who want to quit smoking.

Therefore, it is essential to create a smoke-free world that demands collaborative efforts and robust policies. As we mark Anti-Tobacco Day this year, we can renew our commitment to safeguarding public health and fostering a tobacco-free environment for future generations.

Source

WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2023
State Of Smoking And Health In India

NephroPlus debunks SIX critical dialysis myths that hamper quality care in India

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, has filtered six critical myths surrounding dialysis care in India, eventually hampering the quality of managing people with chronic kidney disease.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population.

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with Dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s understand how to filter myths from the facts

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.
Fact: : No, Dialysis is not a life sentence. It is a second chance to live your life without suffering from the consequences of failed kidneys

Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon
Fact: The number of Indians suffering from chronic kidney ailments has doubled in the past 15 years, and at present, 17 in every hundred citizens suffer from some form of kidney disease, as reported by health experts. The number of patients undergoing Dialysis in India is also increasing by 10-15% every year, which majorly includes children. However, not much importance is given to kidney disorders as it is still under-the-radar condition.

Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis
Fact: Many feel it is necessary to limit travel, either locally or for a vacation. It can be hard to take spontaneous trips and spend extended time away from home; however, a little bit of homework on your side to find a reliable dialysis center in your place of travel can solve your problem and will allow you to travel and enjoy without being worried about your dialysis needs

Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis
Fact: A carefully thought-out meal plan will play a significant role. Your dietitian can help you figure out how to incorporate foods you enjoy and still stay within your dialysis diet guidelines. While some of the key basics to follow are; less salt intake, controlled potassium and phosphorus food, more proteins, and controlled fluids. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to create a kidney-friendly meal plan so you can thrive

Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible
Fact: Almost everyone gets past their initial fears of being on Dialysis. Yes, it changes your life drastically, but it can be managed. Becoming more knowledgeable and knowing what to expect often helps a person to cope better. Information is the best way to overcome the fears of dialysis treatment. Talking to mental health professionals and people already on Dialysis helps tremendously, don’t be afraid to seek help. Once you have adjusted to the treatment, you can work around it and begin to enjoy life to the fullest.

Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis
Fact: The truth is that most dialysis patients can exercise. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy. Regular exercise is the first activity that helps many people on Dialysis feel “normal” again. This is partly because exercise can help you return to the activities you enjoyed before Dialysis. You can choose continuous activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing, or any other activity in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy.

NephroPlus filters out myths from the facts associated with life on dialysis

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, has filtered six critical myths surrounding life on dialysis and reveals how life on dialysis is not a death sentence.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies
also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population2 .

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s understand how to filter myths from the facts

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.
Fact: No, Dialysis is not a death sentence. It is a second chance to live your life without suffering from the consequences of failed kidneys. People live on dialysis for decades.

Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon
Fact: The number of Indians suffering from chronic kidney ailments has doubled in the past 15 years, and at present, 17 in every hundred citizens suffer from some form of kidney disease, as reported by health experts. The number of patients undergoing Dialysis in India is also increasing by 10-15% every year, which majorly includes children. However, not much importance is given to kidney disorders as it is still an under-the-radar condition.

Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis
Fact: Many feel it is necessary to limit travel, either locally or for a vacation. It can be hard to take spontaneous trips and spend extended time away from home; however, a little bit of homework on your side to find a reliable dialysis center in your place of travel can solve your problem and will allow you to travel and enjoy without being worried about your dialysis needs

Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis
Fact: A carefully thought-out meal plan will play a significant role. Your dietitian can help you figure out how to incorporate foods you enjoy and still stay within your dialysis diet guidelines. While some of the key basics to follow are; less salt intake, controlled potassium and phosphorus food, more proteins, and controlled fluids. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to create a kidney-friendly meal plan so you can thrive

Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible
Fact: Almost everyone gets past their initial fears of being on Dialysis. Yes, it changes your life drastically, but it can be managed. Becoming more knowledgeable and knowing what to expect often helps a person to cope better. Information is the best way to overcome the fears of dialysis treatment. Talking to mental health professionals and people already on Dialysis helps tremendously, don’t be afraid to seek help. Once you have adjusted to the treatment, you can work around it and begin to enjoy life to the fullest.

Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis
Fact: The truth is that most dialysis patients can exercise. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy. Regular exercise is the first activity that helps many people on Dialysis feel “normal” again. This is partly because exercise can help you return to the activities you enjoyed before Dialysis. You can choose continuous activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing, or any other activity in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy

Dialysis is not a death sentence

A leading nephrologist filters out popular myths associated with life on dialysis.
by Dr. Suresh Sankar, a leading Nephrologist and Sr. Vice president of Clinical Affairs, NephroPlus

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies
also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population2 .

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s filter out some popular myths surrounding life on dialysis

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.
Fact:

Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon
Fact:

Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis
Fact:

Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis
Fact:

Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible
Fact:

Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis
Fact:

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy.

Author’s profile:
Dr. Suresh Shankar, leading nephrologist and Senior Vice President, NephroPlus

Dr. Suresh Sankar is a dually specialized professional combining two decades of Nephrology practice with a decade of clinical leadership experience. A patient-centric practitioner he rigorously applies science to clinical practice within the contours of patient choice and affordability; a strong need in Indian health care. As a clinical leader, he is proficient in improving population health with deft synchrony of management objectives and organizational capabilities. Highly committed to systems improvement he combines able talent management, process improvement, and adept data skills to design, deliver and optimize patient care programs. His knowledge of the context of health care in India, cross-industrial learning, patient expectations, and stakeholder engagement are effective tools to drive focus and momentum of clinical teams. A sound clinical strategist, his collaborative functioning with other divisions ensures superior service delivery

The 4th edition of NephroPlus’ flagship event, ‘Indian Dialysis Olympiad’ 2023, witnessed a spectacular response of over 650 dialysis patients

~Bajrang Punia, Olympic Bronze Medallist & World Wrestling Championship winner, pledged his support towards the initiative and felicitated the winners ~

Delhi, March 5, 2023: With the phenomenal success of the previous edition, NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network and a pioneer in redefining dialysis care in India, unfolded its 4 th edition of the world’s only and most awaited dialysis patient program, ‘Indian Dialysis Olympiad’ 23′ in Delhi today. The Olympic-style full-day mega-national event hosted exclusively for Dialysis Patients is yet another initiative by NephroPlus to create a passionate dialysis community that brings back their #WillToWin after the brutal diagnosis of Kidney Failure.

To join the brand’s efforts, Mr. Bajrang Punia, the iconic Indian freestyle wrestler, an Olympics bronze medallist, and a four times winner at World Wrestling Championships, was present to boost the spirit of the players.

Indian Dialysis Olympiad is NephroPlus’ annual flagship patient-centric activity that encourages dialysis patients, providing them with a platform where they can play sports, interact with fellow patients, and dwell in an encouragement to lead lives close to normal. This sportive-cumentertainment filled event allowed the participants to indulge in games such as Badminton, Table Tennis, Cricket, Basketball, Cycling, Marathon, etc. In addition, a Karaoke session and some stage and dance performances were also planned. The winners of these respective events were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals.

Setting the event’s tone, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO of, NephroPlus, said, “Movement is medicine – it is a veracious phrase until you get kidney issues. As you are forced into the long haul of dialysis care to replace kidney functions, there are innumerable restrictions on physical activities. The Indian Dialysis Olympiad is built to encourage dialysis patients to live beyond their condition and lead high-spirited lives. Witnessing the continued colossal participation of patients in every event motivates us to host several other community engagement activities. Like every year, Indian Dialysis Olmpiad’23 witnessed real-time champions who came forward and participated with zeal and enthusiasm, despite being on Dialysis. They all are winners in our sight.”

Amazed at the guest participation, Mr. Bajrang Punia commented, “It was an up-fangled experience for me. I was moved to see that people with kidney conditions on dialysis service have gathered and engaged in sports and other fun activities with great spirits. An experience like that is needed to explore a newfound meaning in life. I congratulate NephroPlus on the success of yet another Olympiad event. It is highly commendable for a brand to host such patient-centric activities to convey the sense of care to patients and spread nationwide awareness.”

About NephroPlus: NephroPlus operates 297 dialysis centres in 181 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 13 years back with a vision to enable people on Dialysis worldwide to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 22,000+ patients per month and has performed 80+ Lakh treatments. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus builds awareness around nutrition and smart eating to maintain kidney health

Hyderabad, 12th August 2022 – NephroPlus, India’s leading network of dialysis centers focused on redefining dialysis and renal care, reveals insights into the positive impact of nutrition to avoid further damage to the kidneys of dialysis patients. The initiative is another step undertaken by the brand to build awareness amongst dialysis patients on how food can help them manage their ailments.

Dr. Suresh Sankar, Senior Vice President, Clinical Affairs, NephroPlus, said, “Eating the right foods and avoiding foods high in sodium, potassium, and phosphorus prevent or delay health complications amongst CKD patients. While there is a general lack of awareness about the role of diet and nutrition in managing health, awareness is more critical for dialysis patients. It is important for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease to know the nutritional value of the food they consume and how their eating and drinking habits directly impact their kidneys. In addition, knowing more about the calorie count of foods and the composition of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins are much needed.”

“The MDRD study – a scientific multicentre study in the 1990s, aimed to investigate the effect of protein restriction and blood pressure control on the progression of disease in patients with chronic renal diseases. It was observed that dietary interventions can have a positive effect in patients with moderate renal insufficiency. Also, among persons with more pronounced proteinuria, there was a significantly slower worsening of kidney fucntion”, added Dr. Sankar.

The purpose of the diet is to keep the levels of electrolytes, minerals, and fluid in your body balanced when you have CKD or are on dialysis.

Work with a dietitian to develop a meal plan that includes foods you enjoy eating while maintaining your kidney health. Again, a little bit of planning and organizing helps.

Listed below are a few things a dialysis patient can consider to manage their health condition.

EATING TIPS

(until your dietician prepares a personalized meal plan for you)

Eat more moderate amount of protein
Eat less high salt, high potassium. And high phosphorous foods
Learn how much fluid you can safely drink (including coffee, tea, water, and any food that is liquid at room temperature). It varies according to a patient’s individual condition
Lower the amount of Sodium; it is generally easier to decrease the salt in the food gradually for your test buds to adjust
A more vegetarian based diet will help patients with kidney disease not on dialysis

NephroPlus kicks off 4 independent dialysis centers in Uzbekistan

Hyderabad, May 2022: NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining
dialysis care in India, is proud to announce another milestone achievement by launching four standalone dialysis centers in Uzbekistan. The accomplishment is the first successful step undertaken by NephroPlus after bagging the $100M+ worth of dialysis services contract with the Ministry of Health in the Republic of Uzbekistan Government to construct and operationalize independent dialysis centers in the country. The company is constructing these dialysis centers on a turnkey basis, wherein they independently commission and operationalize these centers, and interestingly two of these have already begun operating in a record time of only six months

While an initial target is to run four centers in Uzbekistan, the one in Karakalpakstan at Nukus became operational on April 18, 2022, and two at Khorezm, Urgench, and Bogot each, are on the verge of being launched in May 2022 itself. Another sizable dialysis center in Tashkent, which will be ready by July 2022, is being aimed as Asia’s largest, which is to serve over 750 patients. To echo, this initiative is a part of a 10-year long Public-Private Partnership agreement between NephroPlus and the Ministry of Health, Republic of Uzbekistan, with NephroPlus looking at generating INR 750 – 800 Cr in the entire project term. At present, the company has already put in an investment of about INR ______ for this project in Uzbekistan.

Upon winning this competitive bidding, NephroPlus promises to provide quality dialysis care to Uzbekistan patients in parallel with best industry practices, quality patient care, reduced infection risk, and no out-of-pocket payments from patients. For this project, NephroPlus will be establishing a 100% owned local subsidiary to operate the centers. Resources and technical expertise from India will be utilized to implement and supervise international standard clinical protocols to improve the quality of dialysis care in Uzbekistan. NephroPlus will be using the expertise from its state-of-the-art training academy, Enpidia, which produces the finest dialysis technicians and nurses in the industry. These centers are expected to support over 1,300 Uzbekistan patients in improving their quality of life.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, NephroPlus was successful in operationalizing 2 centers in a mere period of only 6 months, and on this occasion Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus said: “We ambition to extend quality healthcare dialysis services to Uzbek citizens just like we have done in India. Not only do we wish to support people to improve their quality of living, but we also plan to develop a nephrology ecosystem that offers quality, easy and affordable dialysis services in the country. Operationalising the Urgench and Bogot dialysis centers at Khorezmn in a record time of only 6 months is a massive achievement, wherein everything from construction to commissioning has been done by NephroPlus on a turnkey basis. In Uzbekistan, we will be the first ones to be introducing peritoneal dialysis services, wherein people can obtain dialysis in the comfort of their homes. This will benefit the rural population in remote areas and save a lot of time, effort, and money, which was otherwise consumed in traveling to faraway dialysis centers.”

Mr. Kamal Shah, Co-founder, NephroPlus added: “NephroPlus will offer end-to-end Hemodialysis and Peritoneal dialysis treatment modalities to the EDRD patients in Uzbekistan, wherein the frequency of dialysis will be at 144 treatments per year per patient. This will further improve clinical outcomes for dialysis patients and bring huge savings for the Republic of Uzbekistan. Currently, patients aren’t able to obtain quality services regularly and the Government’s push toward efficiency will work wonders to alleviate this concern. At existing centers, the technical expertise of staff and quality of services was also somewhat a concern, which NephroPlus is committed to improving. NephroPlus will make Uzbekistan one of Asia’s largest hubs for quality, quick, and economical dialysis services.”

Speaking on this tremendous achievement and its subsequent impact, Mr ABC XYZ from the Ministry of Health in the Republic of Uzbekistan went on to share, “Amidst the growing demand for quality dialysis in the country, we are committed to improving the healthcare services in the country through unique and dynamic PPP model wherein, NephroPlus, Asia’s leading dialysis services provider, has been selected through an open competitive bidding process. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is working to continually expand affordable and high-grade healthcare infrastructure in the nation of Uzbekistan and shall soon be able to align it to international quality standards.”

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 270 dialysis centres in 166 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 11 years back with a vision to enable people on Dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus, India’s Largest Dialysis Network Acquires Majority Stake in Royal Care Dialysis Centers, Philippines

Mumbai, 13th October, 2020 : NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India announced its first major overseas acquisition. NephroPlus acquired majority stake in Royal Care Dialysis Centers, Inc (RCDC), a reputed dialysis network in the Philippines with deep focus in delivering high quality care. Through this strategic partnership, NephroPlus has become the 1st Indian dialysis network to expand overseas, marking the company’s transition to becoming a Multi-National Corporation (MNC).

RCDC Network is a growing network in Philippines and currently treats ~400 dialysis patients across it’s 6 dialysis clinics located in Metro Manila and other nearby provinces. Through this deal, NephroPlus will be responsible for the network’s existing operations and will lend all its India based protocols,technologies and operational expertise to RCDC with an aim to improve dialysis care in the Philippines. As part of company’s overseas expansion strategy, NephroPlus aims to expand the services in other provinces and grow this network to 50 dialysis centers in next 5 years to be the dominant dialysis network in the Philippines by 2025.

On closing the first overseas acquisition, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus said: “We are excited to add the team from RCDC to our network.Working together with this leadership team of RCDC, we are now aiming to become the largest dialysis network in Philippines in next 5 years. We have already started talking to several dialysis centers in Philippines to fuel our expansion plans. With this entry into Philippines, we reiterate our commitment to build a dominant multinational network across Asia, Middle East and CIS geographies. ”

Commenting on the partnership, Mr. Kamal Shah, Co-Founder and Director Patient Services, NephroPlus, said: “This partnership is a big move for NephroPlus in the International market as we want to deliver the best care possible at efficient price points to patients across multiple countries. We are excited to rollout best practices around patient centric care in Philippines and are keen to bring best practices of RCDC into India as well. This multinational operational expertise will significantly strengthen NephroPlus’s brand equity amongst our nephrologist and hospital partners in India”

Commenting on the deal, Mr. Sunil Chellani, Founder, Royal Care Dialysis Network , said, “We are excited to partner with NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network to accelerate our growth journey in Philippines. They bring in over a decade long experience of operating dialysis centers and introduced many first time SOPs and innovations in the Indian dialysis ecosystem. We aim to bring NephroPlus’s world class clinical care coupled with industry leading patient centric philosophy to better serve patients in the Philippines. With this partnership, we are confident that we will grow to become the dominant dialysis network in Philippines in 4 – 5 years.”

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 230 dialysis centers in 132 cities across 20 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 10 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 20,000+ patients per month and has performed 52+ Lakh treatments till date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus launches dialysis centre in association with CARE Hospital, expands its footprint in Nagpur

Nagpur, 20th October 2021: NephroPlus, Asia’s largest dialysis network and a pioneer in redefining dialysis care in India, announced its association with one of India’s leading healthcare providers – CARE Hospitals today. With this strategic collaboration, NephroPlus adds another feather to its cap by expanding its dialysis operations in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The partners will aim at providing worldclass and high-quality dialysis services for kidney patients in the Nagpur region.

The collaboration between NephroPlus and CARE Hospitals will provide high-quality treatment in terms of Haemodialysis procedures, along with critical care services including plasmapheresis, CRRT, HDF, and SLED. The partnership will also allow people on dialysis to lead a life close to normal by conducting regular support group meetings and events for dialysis people. These programs will provide patients a platform to share their experiences, overcome their inhibitions, and boost their confidence in life.

As per recent statistics revealed by Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC), over 7,000 patients are seeking advantage of the NMC dialysis scheme per year. At CARE Hospital, over 2000 plus patients visit the OPD centre for kidney related issues. It is also estimated that about 200,000 new patients develop end-stage kidney failure every year in India. More than 75 lakh patients live with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and less than 30% of patients manage to get dialysis in India.

Driven by a patient-centric approach where each patient is treated as a ‘guest’, NephroPlus encourages individuals on dialysis to lead lives as close to normal as possible. This partnership which is equipped with world-class facilities and experienced professionals will focus on making quality dialysis accessible and affordable for all in these regions.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder & CEO of, NephroPlus said, “Care Hospitals is one of the leading healthcare providers in India, and we are extremely delighted to partner with them in Nagpur. We have witnessed a growing demand for dialysis in Nagpur, and as a specialized dialysis care network in India with world-class equipment and trained professionals, we are sure we will be able to bridge the accessibility and affordability gap in this region. We are thankful to CARE Hospitals for bestowing their trust in NephroPlus, and we are happy to stand strong to our commitment towards redefining dialysis across the country with our protocols-based operations and patient-centric approach.”

Elaborating on the association, Dr. Ashwinikumar Khandekar, Nephrologist CARE Hospitals said, “NephroPlus is the largest dialysis care network in India with decade-long experience of operating dialysis centres in multiple locations across the country. We are extremely happy to associate with NephroPlus as a strategic partner for our dialysis program at CARE hospitals, Nagpur, and we are confident that our partnership will help us provide world-class dialysis care to kidney disorder patients in the region. We will work closely with NephroPlus and oversee the clinical program to ensure the highest standards of dialysis treatment.”

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 270 dialysis centres in 165 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 11 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 52+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

About CARE Hospitals:

CARE Hospitals Group is a multi-specialty healthcare provider with 11 hospitals serving six cities across five states of India. A regional leader in South and Central India and counted among the top 4 panIndian hospital chains, CARE Hospitals delivers comprehensive care in over 30 clinical specialties. Presently, CARE Hospitals is a part of the Evercare Group that extends its healthcare services across Asia and Africa. For details, log on to www.carehospitals.com

NephroPlus expands its footprint in India by launching its first dialysis center in association with Ayursundra Specialty Hospital, Guwahati

Guwahati, 25th April 2022: NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network and a pioneer in redefining dialysis care in India, announced the launch of its dialysis center in association with Guwahati’s heritage healthcare provider, Ayursundra Super Specialty Hospital . With the company’s strategic plan to expand its operation across multiple locations in the country, NephroPlus will now be functional in Assam’s largest city of Guwahati. This collaboration aims to provide high-quality Dialysis and kidney care management for kidney patients in the north-eastern region.

The strategic collaboration will now offer a wide range of advanced dialysis care such as a State-of- heart dialysis facility, Hemodialysis, Dialysis on call, Sustained low-efficiency Dialysis (SLED dialysis) for critically ill patients, Home-hemodialysis, and Holiday dialysis. In addition to this, dialysis guests will also be provided with NephroPlus’ advanced technologies such as Buttonhole Needles/Painless Dialysis, a Zero Infection Kit that minimizes the risk of cross infections, and a Renaclean machine used to wash dialyzer for zero errors during dialyzer reuse count. Furthermore, to ensure every dialysis guest receives high-quality care, the center will have separate sanitized beds for seropositive and seronegative patients to avoid cross-infections.

As per recent statistics, over 6000 plus kidney patients are present in Guwahati, and currently, 388 dialysis sessions are conducted at Ayursundra hospital. Furthermore, about 200,000 new patients develop end-stage kidney failure every year in India, More than 75 lakh patients live with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and less than 30% of patients manage to get Dialysis in India

Driven by a patient-centric approach where each patient is treated as a ‘guest,’ NephroPlus encourages individuals on Dialysis to lead lives as close to normal as possible. This partnership, equipped with worldclass facilities and experienced professionals, will focus on making quality Dialysis accessible and affordable for all in these regions. In addition, NephroPlus developed a patient-centric health application called ‘the Guest App’ to boost further its commitment to educating patients on preventive kidney care. The application educates kidney patients with the latest medical news about kidney care and management and health and nutrition tips. In addition, it provides easy access to Nephrologists across any center in the country.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder & CEO of NephroPlus, said, “Ayursundra Superspecialty Hospital is one of the leading healthcare providers in Guwahati, has set a new standard in medical care for the people in Northeast. We are delighted to partner with them as the brand has a very strong presence in the region regarding dialysis care. We are confident that this collaboration will boost the dialysis services, offering patients many first-time innovations in the country’s dialysis ecosystem. We are thankful to Ayursundra Super specialty hospital for trusting in NephroPlus, and we are all set to stand strong to our commitment towards redefining Dialysis across the city.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Manoj Kumar Deka, CEO of Ayursundra Super Specialty Hospital, said, “Dialysis is growing rapidly in India, and there is much room to improve access and quality of service. Our partnership with NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis provider, will help us scale up dialysis service delivery and strengthen our reputation all over Assam. We are indeed happy that NephroPlus has decided to join hands with us. We promise to work closely with their team and oversee the clinical program to ensure the highest standards of dialysistreatment”

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 275 dialysis centers in more than 170 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 11 years back with a vision to enable people on Dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

Dialysis providers in India launch ‘Dialysis Services Providers Association of India’ (DSPAI)

~First Indian body to work in line with the government in drafting projects and policies that will elevate the growth of the dialysis market in the country~

Delhi, XY, June 2022: To deepen collaboration, maintain standard operating protocols, and address challenges deterrent to the industry’s growth, leading dialysis service providers in India have joined hands to launch the much-awaited Dialysis Services Providers Association of India (DSPAI) today. The body, which has been in the works for some time, comes in response to the need for a platform that will engage with the government on policy formulation, work closely with the nephrology community to set operating protocols, and clear roadblocks or address grievances that are hampering the progress of the industry.

The DSPAI is a product of the coming together of leading dialysis service providers to forge a progressive path for practitioners and patients alike. The association also sets out to engage with the government and policy makers to develop equitable policies for the dialysis community to ensure quality delivery and sustenance of the industry, which keep patient care at the centre while building a robust ecosystem of dialysis care providers. The DSPAI will also serve as a platform for crucial advocacy toward engendering transformational industry growth and improved outcome-based care.

According to Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder & CEO, NephroPlus,and a spokesperson for the association said, “the move is geared primarily towards deepening engagement with other stakeholders. We want to be able to conveniently interface with the central and state governments on matters that have to do with enlightenment and reforms to bring about improved care for dialysis patients. This will also involve engaging better with policymakers towards policy actions that can create a mutually agreeable ecosystem for all stakeholders and ensure patients get the quality care they deserve,”

At the launch of the association, Dr. Vishwanath Billa, Consultant Nephrologist & Director, Apex Kidney Care Pvt. Ltd said, “there is a need for continuous upgrade of protocols, and the association presents an opportunity for practitioners to network, brainstorm, and deliberate on ways to achieve better clinical outcomes using outcome-based approaches to dialysis.”

“Another crucial aspect is setting a viable and sustainable price point to help boost dialysis access. We also understand that training and capacity building is extremely important to maintain globally accepted standards in India,” Dr. Billa added

The association will be looking to further advocate for long-standing priority issues such as policies for stand-alone dialysis centres and operational standards. Further, such centres would be guided, putting in place a well-defined quality accreditation framework for dialysis procedures, entrenching clinical outcome-based care, and enhancing the ease-of-doing-business index for dialysis companies in India. It is hoped that such actions will increase the visibility of the industry and the recognition of dialysis as a specialized field in India.

As per Mr. Aseem Garg, Founder & Promoter, DCDC Health Services, “this advocacy is intended to compel policymakers and regulators not by antagonism, but as crucial partners and collaborators towards the growth of dialysis care in India. Our main goal is to work with government and other stakeholders in policy formulation and regulations so that we can help improve the efficiency of the profession and ensure our members are well looked out for,”

Expressing his opinion on the association’s launch, Mr. Shaurya Tayal, Founder of Rahi Care,said, “We are optimistic that, through the association, the commoditization of dialysis will be prevented, and it will be given its due recognition as a life-saving therapy. Practitioners like us are confident that with the proper framework, dialysis services will become more sustainable to ensure that quality care is delivered to the last mile and patients’ lives are improved.”

“We would like to see an ecosystem where dialysis service providers and the government will become partners in progress. We want to make India a destination for dialysis care and know that we cannot do that without the right policies. We need to point out that this association is different from the existing association, as they focus on dialysis technology and provide financial, tax, and consulting services for their clients. However, we at DSPAI are the dialysis service providers, and this association is meant for collaboration, advocacy, and interests,” notes Mr. Prabhat K. Shrivastava, Co-founder & Director, Vituscare Medlife Pvt. Ltd.

Notable founding members of the association are NephroPlus, Apex Kidney Care, DCDC Kidney Care, Rahi Care, Apollo Dialysis, 7Med, ESKAG Sanjeevani, and Vituscare Medlife.

NephroPlus launches RenovaTM, first of its kind automated dialyzer reprocessing technology that will make hemodialysis an affordable option

~With the in-built cloud storage, the new patent-winning product from NephroPlus offers readable and simplified patient clinical reports~

Hyderabad, XY, July 2022: NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, announced the launch of the revolutionary all-digitalized dialyzer reprocessor, RenovaTM. With the launch of this first-ever product, NephroPlus aims to enhance the technology and equipment associated with dialysis procedures to improve the overall efficiency and offer the affordability of lifesustaining dialysis treatment for patients suffering from end-stage renal disease diseases (ESRD) in the country. At present, that breakthrough innovation will start as a pilot project across four centers in Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore.

RenovaTM is a cloud-connected device. Using the power of the internet cloud, Biomedical Engineers can troubleshoot and fix issues remotely. Currently, if there’s a problem with any Reprocessing Machine, a Biomedical Engineer must travel to the Centre. In an age of Dialysis centers being situated across the length and breadth of the country, it can be costly for Biomedical Engineers to travel to centers for every breakdown. With RenovaTM, they can log in to the machine using the RenovaTM app, which allows them to see the machine’s status, including observing the functioning of every valve in the device during operations to figure out what is wrong. After getting some information on the cause of the problem, they can decide if a part needs to be changed or some configuration parameter needs to be fixed. All this saves a lot of time to resolve the issue and saves on time, cost, and effort for Biomedical Engineers.

On announcing the launch of Renova, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus, said, “Over time, a lot of advances have been seen in medical treatments, yet they can be ineffective, inefficient, and consumer-unfriendly. These shortcomings arise due to a range of problems due to medical errors. Such problems beg for innovative solutions involving all aspects of healthcare from technology to treatment delivery.”

We at NephroPlus were unhappy with one critical piece of equipment used widely in Dialysis Centres in the developing world – the Dialyser Reprocessing Machine, which is an excellent way to save costs for the patient without compromising on the quality. Our team worked on this machine, building one from scratch,
by solving many problems in the devices available in the Indian and international markets. It gives us immense pleasure to announce that RenovaTM has been granted a patent for the several innovations we have introduced. We plan to make these machines available to other dialysis centers to promote accessibility. We hope this will improve the efficiency of dialysis centers in the developing world and help to provide safe, effective dialysis to all patients,” added Mr. Vuppala

A dialyzer, also called the artificial kidney, is an essential apparatus to filter out all the extra sugar, salt, waste, and fluid, leading the cleaned blood back to the patient’s body. It is also the most expensive consumable in the dialysis procedure, given its paramount functionality. The traditional dialyzer reprocessor requires manual cleaning, which can lead to patient cross-infection. However, the automated reprocessing units currently available eliminate the scope of manual errors that ultimately lead to cross infections, residual chemical infusion, environmental contamination, and much more.

Speaking on the latest innovation, Mr. Kamal Shah, Co-founder & Director of Guest Services, NephroPlus, said, “In the past, machines in the market had an archaic printing system where the results of each Reprocessing Cycle were printed on a piece of paper and then stapled to the Case Sheet of the patient. With Case Sheets also going online, it was ridiculous to have to print out the Reprocessing Status. Further, the quality of the printer was also poor resulting in replacement costs being incurred every few months. All these factors prompted us to shift the entire process to the cloud. We are an absolute delight to introduce our breakthrough innovation RenovaTM. Through this product, the reprocessed data will be stored on the cloud, enabling analysis and correlated with Clinical Outcomes, which will help improve the processes.”

“Furthermore, doctors will get access to reprocessing data which is stored online. Better data analysis will be possible, including correlating reprocessing data with clinical outcomes. Patients will benefit as they will get access to a very safe and efficient reprocessing machine which will deliver better outcomes,” added Mr. Shah

Many studies have revealed that the provision of medical services for the treatment of end-stage-kidney diseases (ESRD) poses severe financial challenges because of well-equipped modalities related to dialysis services. By introducing the revolutionary reprocessing technology, NephroPlus has offered a way to save costs of dialysis care services without compromising the quality. Mass manufacture of RenovaTM is in progress as the brand plans to install the unit across its 270 centers nationwide.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 270 dialysis centers in 166 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 11 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus launches its flagship program ‘Guest Got Talent’ Season Four

~The much-awaited initiative is based on the success of the last three years; it focuses on motivating dialysis patients to live normal lives filled with joyful moments~

Mumbai, August 8, 2022: NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network focused on redefining dialysis care, has announced the ‘Call to Entry’ to its much-awaited motivational program for all the dialysis patients who are attached to its centers as well as others, ‘Guests Got Talent’ season four. The highly anticipated digital contest is the flagship program initiated by NephroPlus to encourage people on
Dialysis who they call “Guests” to showcase their talent and creativity to add meaning to their lives. The entry for this unique contest started on August 1, 2022, and will run for a month.

The participation is simple and easy, the participants need to upload a one-minute audio, video, or picture demonstrating their talent and tag NephroPlus’ social media handles Facebook www.facebook.com/NephroPlusDialysisNetwork/,Instagram(https://www.instagram.com/nephropl us/)/ Twitter page (https:// https://twitter.com/nephroplus,)or mail entries at creatives@nephroplus.com. The participation process is open for all dialysis patients; one must submit the entries along with his/her name, contact details, dialysis centre & city. Every week NephroPlus will upload the entries received from the participants on their social media page until the end of the talent hunt program.

All the submissions will be reviewed by an eminent panel of jury members. After a rigorous evaluation process basis the participants’ creativity, act, impact, and diligence, three winners will be selected who will be felicitated.

Setting the tone for the launch of the contest, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus,said, Providing high quality dialysis service that is accessible and affordable for all dialysis patients is our objective at NephroPlus and our dialysis guests have reposed this trust in us for over a decade now. We understand the needs of our dialysis guests and also understand their struggles and hardships in managing their condition. Hosting ‘Guests Got Talent’ allows us to further strengthen our relationship with our Guests (patients) and their families through fun activities that bring joy to them and supports them in leading normal lives. The “Guests Got Talent” contest is a unique way of affirming our commitment to bettering the lives of all dialysis patients and encourages all people on dialysis to express themselves by showcasing their talent and also bring joy, fun and excitement to their lives eluding them from their daily struggles due to their medical condition. We are in the 4th season and are thrilled to witness the response we receive.’’

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 290 dialysis centres in 175 cities across 24 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on Dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus Continues Expansion, Operationalizes 2 more Dialysis Centres in the Republic of Uzbekistan

Hyderabad, 24 August 2022: NephroPlus announces further expansion of its services in the Republic of Uzbekistan. The company is constructing four dialysis centers on a turnkey basis as a part of a broader partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Republic of Uzbekistan after securing a contract worth $100M, where they will independently commission and operationalize these centers. Three centers have already been operationalized.

NephroPlus announces the opening of two new dialysis centers, one each in Urgench and Bogot, Uzbekistan. While the first center in Nukus, Karakalpakstan, became operational in April’ 22. This facility is the newest location in NephroPlus’ expanding global footprint. The company plans to open the fourth center in Tashkent, a 160 bedded center soon.

NephroPlus will provide high-quality dialysis care to over 1,100 patients in Uzbekistan. For this project, NephroPlus has established a 100% owned local subsidiary to operate the centers. NephroPlus intends to implement its RenAssure™ protocols to deliver a synchronized and convenient patient experience in Uzbekistan.

Despite the challenges of COVID-19, NephroPlus was successful in operationalizing three centers. On this occasion, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus, said: “Our ambition to extend high-quality dialysis services is a testament to our commitment. In Uzbekistan, NephroPlus has done construction to commissioning on a turnkey basis and will further introduce Peritoneal Dialysis services, wherein people can obtain dialysis in the comfort of their homes”

Speaking on this achievement and its subsequent impact, Mr. Gapparov Faruk Abdukaxarovich, PPP Head, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan went on to share, “Amidst the growing demand for quality dialysis in the country, we are committed to improving the healthcare services in the country through unique and dynamic PPP model wherein, NephroPlus, has been selected through an open competitive bidding process. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is working to continually expand affordable and top-notch healthcare infrastructure in the Republic of Uzbekistan

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 300+ dialysis centers across 4 countries – India, Nepal, Uzbekistan, and Philippines. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable to provide quality services to people on Dialysis across the world. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus filters out myths from the facts associated with life on dialysis

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, has filtered six critical myths surrounding life on dialysis and reveals how life on dialysis is not a death sentence.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies
also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population2 .

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with Dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s understand how to filter myths from the facts

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.

Fact: : No, Dialysis is not a life sentence. It is a second chance to live your life without suffering from the consequences of failed kidneys
Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon

Fact: The number of Indians suffering from chronic kidney ailments has doubled in the past 15 years, and at present, 17 in every hundred citizens suffer from some form of kidney disease, as reported by health experts. The number of patients undergoing Dialysis in India is also increasing by 10-15% every year, which majorly includes children. However, not much importance is given to kidney disorders as it is still under-the-radar condition.
Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis

Fact: Many feel it is necessary to limit travel, either locally or for a vacation. It can be hard to take spontaneous trips and spend extended time away from home; however, a little bit of homework on your side to find a reliable dialysis center in your place of travel can solve your problem and will allow you to travel and enjoy without being worried about your dialysis needs
Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis

Fact: A carefully thought-out meal plan will play a significant role. Your dietitian can help you figure out how to incorporate foods you enjoy and still stay within your dialysis diet guidelines. While some of the key basics to follow are; less salt intake, controlled potassium and phosphorus food, more proteins, and controlled fluids. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to create a kidney-friendly meal plan so you can thrive
Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible

Fact: Almost everyone gets past their initial fears of being on Dialysis. Yes, it changes your life drastically, but it can be managed. Becoming more knowledgeable and knowing what to expect often helps a person to cope better. Information is the best way to overcome the fears of dialysis treatment. Talking to mental health professionals and people already on Dialysis helps tremendously, don’t be afraid to seek help. Once you have adjusted to the treatment, you can work around it and begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis

Fact: The truth is that most dialysis patients can exercise. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy. Regular exercise is the first activity that helps many people on Dialysis feel “normal” again. This is partly because exercise can help you return to the activities you enjoyed before Dialysis. You can choose continuous activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing, or any other activity in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy.

NephroPlus filters out myths from the facts associated with life on dialysis

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, has filtered six critical myths surrounding life on dialysis and reveals how life on dialysis is not a death sentence.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies
also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population2 .

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with Dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s understand how to filter myths from the facts

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.

Fact: : No, Dialysis is not a life sentence. It is a second chance to live your life without suffering from the consequences of failed kidneys
Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon

Fact: The number of Indians suffering from chronic kidney ailments has doubled in the past 15 years, and at present, 17 in every hundred citizens suffer from some form of kidney disease, as reported by health experts. The number of patients undergoing Dialysis in India is also increasing by 10-15% every year, which majorly includes children. However, not much importance is given to kidney disorders as it is still under-the-radar condition.
Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis

Fact: Many feel it is necessary to limit travel, either locally or for a vacation. It can be hard to take spontaneous trips and spend extended time away from home; however, a little bit of homework on your side to find a reliable dialysis center in your place of travel can solve your problem and will allow you to travel and enjoy without being worried about your dialysis needs
Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis

Fact: A carefully thought-out meal plan will play a significant role. Your dietitian can help you figure out how to incorporate foods you enjoy and still stay within your dialysis diet guidelines. While some of the key basics to follow are; less salt intake, controlled potassium and phosphorus food, more proteins, and controlled fluids. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to create a kidney-friendly meal plan so you can thrive
Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible

Fact: Almost everyone gets past their initial fears of being on Dialysis. Yes, it changes your life drastically, but it can be managed. Becoming more knowledgeable and knowing what to expect often helps a person to cope better. Information is the best way to overcome the fears of dialysis treatment. Talking to mental health professionals and people already on Dialysis helps tremendously, don’t be afraid to seek help. Once you have adjusted to the treatment, you can work around it and begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis

Fact: The truth is that most dialysis patients can exercise. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy. Regular exercise is the first activity that helps many people on Dialysis feel “normal” again. This is partly because exercise can help you return to the activities you enjoyed before Dialysis. You can choose continuous activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing, or any other activity in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy.

NephroPlus filters out myths from the facts associated with life on dialysis

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, has filtered six critical myths surrounding life on dialysis and reveals how life on dialysis is not a death sentence.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A recent WHO study reveals that chronic kidney disease is among the top 10 causes of death globally1 . Other studies
also show that over 1,000,000 new patients are diagnosed with end-stage kidney diseases per year. The number of patients attributable to chronic Dialysis is 1.75 lakhs, with 129 per million population2 .

Kidney failure is no one’s fault. It can strike anyone at any age; men, women, and children. Over 2 million people worldwide currently receive treatment with Dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive, yet this number may only represent 10% of people who need treatment to live.

Living on Dialysis can be challenging. But it’s important to remember that Dialysis treatment performs the life-saving job of filtering the body’s toxins that their kidneys can no longer do. People receiving this therapy can continue with their lives normally, yet there are many myths about the treatment and what it does to your life.

Many issues demand your attention as you develop a ‘New Normal’ in your life. Let’s understand how to filter myths from the facts

First Myth: Dialysis is a death sentence.

Fact: : No, Dialysis is not a life sentence. It is a second chance to live your life without suffering from the consequences of failed kidneys
Second Myth: Dialysis is uncommon

Fact: The number of Indians suffering from chronic kidney ailments has doubled in the past 15 years, and at present, 17 in every hundred citizens suffer from some form of kidney disease, as reported by health experts. The number of patients undergoing Dialysis in India is also increasing by 10-15% every year, which majorly includes children. However, not much importance is given to kidney disorders as it is still under-the-radar condition.
Third Myth: You can’t travel if you are on Dialysis

Fact: Many feel it is necessary to limit travel, either locally or for a vacation. It can be hard to take spontaneous trips and spend extended time away from home; however, a little bit of homework on your side to find a reliable dialysis center in your place of travel can solve your problem and will allow you to travel and enjoy without being worried about your dialysis needs
Fourth Myth: You can’t eat normal food if you are on Dialysis

Fact: A carefully thought-out meal plan will play a significant role. Your dietitian can help you figure out how to incorporate foods you enjoy and still stay within your dialysis diet guidelines. While some of the key basics to follow are; less salt intake, controlled potassium and phosphorus food, more proteins, and controlled fluids. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to create a kidney-friendly meal plan so you can thrive
Fifth Myth: Coping with life on Dialysis is impossible

Fact: Almost everyone gets past their initial fears of being on Dialysis. Yes, it changes your life drastically, but it can be managed. Becoming more knowledgeable and knowing what to expect often helps a person to cope better. Information is the best way to overcome the fears of dialysis treatment. Talking to mental health professionals and people already on Dialysis helps tremendously, don’t be afraid to seek help. Once you have adjusted to the treatment, you can work around it and begin to enjoy life to the fullest.
Sixth Myth: You cannot play a sport or exercise while on Dialysis

Fact: The truth is that most dialysis patients can exercise. Exercise keeps your body strong and healthy. Regular exercise is the first activity that helps many people on Dialysis feel “normal” again. This is partly because exercise can help you return to the activities you enjoyed before Dialysis. You can choose continuous activities such as walking, swimming, bicycling (indoors or out), skiing, aerobic dancing, or any other activity in which you need to move large muscle groups continuously. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Regardless of what brought you to the point of kidney failure and the need for Dialysis, it would be best if you manage your physical health regularly. Staying healthy and strong will help you cope with the stress of Dialysis. Follow a nutritious diet, exercise, and monitor your blood pressure and blood values to stay healthy.

NephroPlus launches first of its kind automated dialyzer reprocessor, Renova to cut down the cost of hemodialysis for kidney patients

With the in-built cloud storage, the new patent-winning dialyzer reprocessor offers readable and uncomplicated patient clinical reports of dialysis processes

NephroPlus, a leading dialysis network and a trailblazer in redefining dialysis care in India, announced the launch of the revolutionary all-digitalized dialyzer reprocessor, RenovaTM. With the launch of this first-ever product innovation implemented by the brand’s in-house R&D team, NephroPlus is aiming to enhance the technology and equipment associated with dialysis procedures to improve the efficiency and affordability of life-sustaining dialysis treatment for patients suffering from end-stage renal diseases (ESRD) in the world.

A dialyzer, also called the artificial kidney is the most important apparatus used in the dialysis procedure; it draws out unclean blood from the patient’s body, filters out all the extra sugar, salt, waste, and fluid, and leads the cleaned blood back to the patient’s body. It is also the most expensive consumable in the dialysis procedure given its paramount functionality. The traditional dialyzer reprocessor requires manual cleaning which can lead to cross-infection in patients, however, there are many dialyzer processors available with automated reprocessing which eliminates the scope of manual errors that ultimately leads to cross infections, residual chemical infusion, environmental contamination, and much more.

NephroPlus has been granted patents for several innovations in the making of RenovaTM. What makes the product unique is – remote troubleshooting and cloud-based storage features. With the remote troubleshooting feature enabled, a biomedical engineer can simply access the machine’s operations by logging in to the device to check the functioning of every valve and fix any sort of bugs or malfunctions in operational configuration parameters, thereby saving the time to resolve the issue and the cost attached to the device maintenance. Cloud-based data storage for the dialyzer is the major breakthrough in dialysis management solutions. Initially, the dialyzers were built with an archaic printing system which gave a printed copy of the reprocessing status after patient use. The copy, however, gave poor-quality print, making it difficult for the doctors to study the reprocessing status and patient reports.

On announcing the launch of Renova, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus said, “Over time, a lot of advances have been seen in medical treatments, yet they can be ineffective, inefficient, and consumer-unfriendly. These shortcomings arise due to a range of problems due to medical errors. Such problems beg for innovative solutions involving all aspects of healthcare from technology to treatment delivery. With the introduction of NephroPlus’s debutant product innovation, we aim at reshaping dialysis care in Indian and beyond.”

“Apart from remote troubleshooting and linking the reprocessor to a cloud-based storage unit, several other hardware improvements have been made which fix many problems with the machines in the market. We plan to make these machines available to other dialysis centers as well to promote accessibility. We hope this will improve the efficiency of dialysis centers in the developing world and help to provide safe, effective dialysis to all patients.”, adds Mr. Kamal Shah, Co-founder & Director of Guest Services, NephroPlus

As part of pilot testing, Renova was installed at 4 NephroPlus centers across Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to test its performance, fallibility, and technical drawbacks. ‘’Doctors will get access to reprocessing data which is stored online. Better analysis of the data will be possible including correlating reprocessing data with clinical outcomes. Patients will benefit as they will get access to a very safe and efficient reprocessing machine which will deliver better outcomes.’’, opines Dr. Suresh Sankar, Senior Vice-President of Clinical Affairs, NephroPLus.

Many studies have revealed that the provision of medical services for the treatment of endstage-kidney iseases (ESRD) poses serious financial challenges on account of well-equipped modalities related to dialysis services. By introducing the revoluntionary reprocessing technology, NephroPlus has offered a way to save costs of dialysis care services without compromising the quality. Mass manufacture of RenovaTM is in progress as the installation is programmed within a month.

NephroPlus operates 270 dialysis centres in 166 cities across 23 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 11 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

NephroPlus organizes ‘Aashayein,’ a day-long fun event exclusively for dialysis patients

Over 300 dialysis patients attended the educational, fun and entertainment-filled day

Ahmedabad, 26th September 2022: India’s leading chain of dialysis networks and Asia’s largest Dialysis provider, NephroPlus, organized their flagship event, ‘Aashayein,’ for dialysis patients from its centers across Gujarat on 25th September. The day-long free, educational-cum-fun event aims to help dialysis patients improve their awareness levels of the disease, understand and share challenges and self-care patterns, and bring improvements to the quality of their lives.

More than 300 dialysis patients within and outside the network of NephroPlus attended the event with their families and caregivers. This educational-cum-fun workshop had skilled Nephrologists, Vascular Surgeons, Dieticians, and Mental Health professionals talk about life can be normal despite being on dialysis. The program focused on offering support encompassing the need and importance of a nutrition-focused dietary plan to meet the needs of someone on dialysis; educating patients on how to maintain their fistulas, fluid management, and a variety of other important topics,. The initiative also aimed at extending support to these patients in coping with negative-illness perceptions about kidney diseases and developing a positive attitude. There was an elaborate lunch that was prepared in accordance with renal-friendly diet and the event concluded with a lot of fun games and activities.

In the spirit of the successful Aashayein event, Kamal Shah, Co-founder, NephroPlus, said, ‘’NephroPlus believes in building a hassle-free dialysis process, aimed at reducing the knowledge gaps in dialysis management and treatments. An event like Aashayein boosts confidence in dialysis patients and encourages them to see life beyond the disease. We are thrilled with the response we received for the Aashayein event this year; it is only growing since its introduction. ’’

The event also saw the presence of Dr. R. K. Mandot, a popular Nephrologist and Transplant Physician and the founder of Kidney Health. He addressed the guests with an informative discussion about the role of dialysis in better kidney disease management and the patient-level responsibilities that can add more value to the kidney disease treatment process.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 293 dialysis centres in more than 178 cities across 24 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

For more details, please contact: Madison Public Relations

NephroPlus hosts ‘Aashayein’, an event packed with education and entertainment exclusively for dialysis patients

Over 100 dialysis patients were educated about leading a normal life despite being on dialysis

Hisar, 20th October 2022: India’s leading network of dialysis centers, NephroPlus, organized a day-long fun and educative workshop, ‘Aashayein,’ at its center in Hisar on 16th October. This one-of-a-kind flagship initiative by the brand was to educate dialysis patients on how they can lead a completely normal life despite being on dialysis.. In addition, NephroPlus aimed at strengthening the patient network where they could freely exchange their experiences beyond the clinical settings, level up their diseased condition to lead normal lives, and motivate the masses through their unique talents and skills.

The day-long educational workshop witnessed the participation of over 100 dialysis patients across the district of Hisar, along with their families and loved ones. Key sessions on disease management were addressed by a group of medical professionals associated with NephroPlus. They emphasized the significance of a dialysis-friendly diet for better health and managing mental health to cope with the challenges. Apart from the informative sessions, the workshop included fun and interactive activities to break the momentum and bring a lighter mood.

The activities involved ‘Dumb-charades’ – a guessing game where the participants had to explain a food item suitable to the renal-friendly diet requirement. The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation in a game called ‘Diet Pyramid’ – a type of board game in a pyramid style. The patients were asked to place the food items based on their appropriate usage in the prescribed dietary plan. A talent show involved patients showcasing their special skills and excellence in singing, dancing, mimicking, dialogue delivery, playing an instrument, acting, etc. The edutainment workshop ended with the “Best-Fistula” contest that emphasized the importance of the dialysis access.

Setting the tone of the Aashayein event, Mr. Kamal D. Shah, Co-founder, NephroPlus , said, “The manifesto of introducing this fun-cum-educational activity is to personally connect with the dialysis patient community and maintain consistent outreach. In addition, it gives us an amazing opportunity to understand the passion and confidence in the patient community. This was yet another successful Aashayein event this year, and we are delighted to witness excellent participation.”

A renowned medical professional, Dr. Shekhar Sinha, Medical Director at Jindal Hospital, was invited as a chief guest who addressed the patients on several important aspects of Kidney Disease and Dialysis.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 293 dialysis centres in more than 178 cities across 24 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

For more details, please contact: Madison Public Relations

NephroPlus signs INR 69.5 Crores loan with Asian Development Bank to expand in Uzbekistan

The transaction will help NephroPlus to establish four dialysis centres as part of a broader partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Republic of Uzbekistan, after securing a $100M contract

Hyderabad, 4th January 2023: NephroPlus, India’s largest dialysis network and a pioneer in redefining dialysis care in India, signed a INR 69.5 Crores financing package with Asian Development Bank (ADB)to further its expansion plans in Uzbekistan for building four large dialysis centres. The transaction is a broader partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Republic of Uzbekistan, after securing a contract worth $100M, where NephroPlus will independently commission and operationalize these centres.

The transaction comprises a loan of up to INR 41.7 Crores from ADB’s ordinary capital resources and administration by ADB of a loan of up to INR 27.8 Crores million from Leading Asia’s Private Infrastructure Fund (LEAP). NephroPlus will primarily use the funds to design, build, operate and maintain the dialysis centres in Tashkent city, the Republic of Karakalpakstan, and the Khorezm region. Notably, the dialysis centre in Tashkent, with 160 machines capacity, will be the largest dialysis centre in the World.

NephroPlus will provide it’s highly recognized quality dialysis care to over 1,100 patients in Uzbekistan. It has established a 100% owned local subsidiary to operate the centres for this project. In addition, it intends to implement its RenAssure™ protocols to deliver a synchronized and convenient patient experience in Uzbekistan. An estimated 30,000 patients currently suffer from Kidney failure in Uzbekistan, with an estimated shortage of over 3,500 dialysis machines in the country.

Speaking on the transaction with ADB, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO, NephroPlus ,said, “Our ambition to extend high-quality dialysis services in Uzbekistan is inspired by our vision to enable people on dialysis across the World lead long, happy and productive lives. We are pleased to introduce peritoneal dialysis for the very first time in Uzbekistan to improve access to dialysis for pediatric patients and also patients in rural areas. We are happy to be the private partner for Uzbekistan’s first international health care PPP and to embark on a relationship with an international financier such as ADB as we continue to grow our operations.”

Under this deal, ADB will also support NephroPlus in enhancing and implementing a gender action plan to increase women’s participation in technical and skilled work in dialysis treatment centres through specific training pieces and strengthen gender equality measures in its working environment. As a result, NephroPlus ensures that women make up half the personnel trained to use dialysis machines and conduct dialysis treatment across its global network.

“Dialysis allows people with kidney failure to lead productive lives. Unfortunately, the need for dialysis services in Uzbekistan has far outstripped supply, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic so this project will improve the availability and accessibility of much-needed dialysis services in the country. This project demonstrates how the private sector can play a role in closing the critical gaps in health care service delivery.” said ADB’s Private Sector Operations Department Investment specialist Amanda Tan.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 300+ dialysis centres in more than 180 cities across 4 countries and is known for
its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 13 years back with a vision to
enable people on dialysis across the World to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company
treats 22,000+ patients per month and has performed 80+ Lakh treatments to date. For further
information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

About Asian Development Bank (ADB)

LEAP is an ADB-managed fund Asian Development Bank (ADB) capitalized with a $1.5 billion commitment by the Japan International Cooperation Agency. Established in 2016, LEAP focuses on delivering high-quality and sustainable private sector infrastructure projects that reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and offer accessible and affordable health care, education, and communication services to ADB’s developing members.

ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region.

‘Amrut Aahar’ by NephroPlus provides breakfast to 350 schoolkids in Hyderabad, Telangana

~A social initiative by the brand to mark its 13th anniversary as a leading Indian healthcare provider~

Hyderabad, December 19, 2022: Ahead of the festive season, India’s largest network of dialysis centres, NephroPlus, turned Secret Santa to provide Telangana’s vulnerable school-going children something to look forward to. The organization rolled out a philanthropic initiative, “Amrut Aahar,” in partnership with the Hyderabad-based Jagathi Foundation to provide a weekly breakfast service to 350+ kids studying at the Upper Primary School in Madinaguda, Hyderabad in the state of Telangana till April 2023. The activity is a part of the brand’s social initiative to celebrate 13 years of its successful journey in the healthcare sector.

NephroPlus wants to extend a helping hand to underfunded schools through this initiative. The kids in this school hail from below-poverty-line family households and are often deprived of proper nutrition through daily meals. NephroPlus will provide a nutritious breakfast to the kids which will improve their nutrition levels and also improve attendance to classes.

Addressing the audience at the event, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO , NephroPlus, said, ‘’To be schooled, one must be fueled, to be well read, one must be well fed. Children who do not regularly get enough nutritious food to eat tend to have significantly higher behavioral, emotional, and educational problems. Therefore, the simple act of feeding kids a healthy breakfast at school can have a dramatic impact on their academic performance, health, and economic future. We’re thankful to Jagathi Foundation for establishing this collaboration with the school and bringing about the muchneeded initiative. pportunely, this day marks the 13th year of our successful journey in the healthcare industry, and we are excited to commence the next year with a social intervention to promote the right nutrition among malnutrition-prone kids in their formative years.”

Commenting on the collaborative initiative Durga Kalyani, Founder and President, Jagathi Foundation said, “We are grateful to join hands with a reputed healthcare company like NephoPlus for a great cause. The collaboration was driven by the stellar work done by the brand as part of its corporate social responsibility, facilitated by Abou Baker (Vice President), Rama Chandra (Joint secretary) and supported by the whole team. India has been battling malnutrition for decades, and only through such social initiatives can we alleviate it and create a strong sense of food security for Indian children. Jagathi Foundation plans to expand its ‘Amrut Aahar’ program across Telangana & AP.”

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 300 dialysis centres in more than 180s cities across 25 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 13 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date. For further information: https://www.nephroplus.com/

For further information contact: Madison Public Relations

NephroPlus tie-ups with Malla Reddy Narayana Hospital to set-up an all efficient dialysis care unit in Telangana

The brand strives to address the Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) landscape and strengthen the CKD management options in the state

Telangana, December 29, 2022: NephroPlus, India’s leading chain of dialysis service centers and a top kidney care provider, joined forces with Telangana’s superlative Malla Reddy Narayana Multispecialty Hospital to launch the most incomparable dialysis care unit in the region. It is the brand’s second co-branding venture in Telangana to promote accessible and affordable dialysis treatments through state-of-the-art medical facilities.

The new centre will offer a wide range of advanced dialysis care with services including Hemodialysis, Dialysis on call, Sustained low-efficiency Dialysis (SLED Dialysis) for critically ill patients, Home-hemodialysis, and Holiday Dialysis. With this move, the brand assures improved access to dialysis care for life-threatening kidney diseases, thus minimizing the overall expenditure on kidney care. Furthermore, the unit holds a patient capacity of 150 to meet the ever-increasing clinical needs of dialysis patients.

Addressing the audience at the event, Mr. Vikram Vuppala, Founder and CEO of NephroPlus, said, “Many studies report incidences of kidney failure and dysfunctions in the younger age group as well, along with the geriatric population. Hence, there is a growing demand for dialysis care services, especially in urban settlements. As a kidney care provider, we promote preventive care for the vulnerable community and set up dialysis units for improved accessibility and affordability. We are delighted to join hands with such a reputed institute that readily supports us in achieving the brand mission.”

Commenting on the partnership with NephroPlus, Feb 2016 from Malla Reddy Narayana said, “We are excited to partner with NephroPlus, which is one of the pioneers in the progress of effective dialysis care in India. With NephroPlus’ expertise, global standards, and guest-centric approach, we will be better equipped to address the needs of people on dialysis and improve the health care delivery system in the region as well.”

Along with the prominent nephrologists within the network of NephroPlus, the event, also saw the presence of Mr. Malla Reddy Garu, MLA Medchal Constituency, Minister of Labour and Employment, who was honored as the Chief Guest. This year also marks NephroPlus’ 13 successful years in the healthcare business; through its flagship initiatives like support group meetings, the brand led on to motivate and benefit millions by improving their quality of life and continues to relish.

About NephroPlus:

NephroPlus operates 293 dialysis centres in more than 178 cities across 24 states in India and is known for its quality focus and patient-centricity. The company was established 12 years back with a vision to enable people on dialysis across the world to lead long, happy, and productive lives. The company treats 18,000+ patients per month and has performed 60+ Lakh treatments to date.

For further information contact: Madison Public Relations

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