Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a widespread and frequently under–recognised condition impacting millions around the globe. With an aging population, the prevalence of CKD is projected to rise significantly. Nearly 850 million people worldwide are affected by chronic kidney disease, yet approximately 90% remain undiagnosed in early stages when treatment is most effective. It is a long-term condition marked by a slow deterioration of kidney function that can occur over several months or years, often resulting from issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Although CKD symptoms do manifest, early detection and preventive measures remain crucial.
The Importance of Awareness and Early Detection:
The focus of World Kidney Day 2025, ‘’Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early. Protect Kidney Health,’’ emphasizes on the transformative effects of recognizing and addressing kidney issues early on. Regular kidney function assessments for populations at higher risk, including those with diabetes and high blood pressure, are vital for detecting chronic kidney diseases (CKD) in their initial stages. Identifying the disease early facilitates prompt diagnosis, which can significantly slow its progression and improve overall quality of life.
Rising Trend of CKD in India
A recent report by NCBI, indicates a rising trend of CKD in India, with prevalence increasing from 11.12% between 2011 and 2017 to 16.38% between 2018 and 2023 among individuals aged 15 years and above. This trend is more evident in rural areas than in urban settings, with a pooled prevalence of 15.34% versus 10.65% in urban areas.
Role of Healthy Habits in CKD Prevention
Embracing healthy lifestyle choices is essential for managing chronic kidney diseases (CKD) and avoiding complications. Key strategies include achieving a healthy weight, regulating blood pressure, controlling diabetes, and minimizing the consumption of salt. Recent studies highlight the significance of diet in CKD prevention, stressing the advantages of looking at overall dietary patterns instead of isolating specific nutrients. Consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been proven to lower the likelihood of developing CKD. Engaging in regular physical exercise is also vital for supporting general health and mitigating risk factors related to CKD.
Key Lifestyle Changes for Preventing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Preventing CKD involves adopting healthy lifestyle habits that reduce risk factors and promote overall well-being. Here are some key lifestyle changes that can help:
1. Healthy Diet
– Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake:
Aim for at least five portions daily to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
– Choose Whole Grains:
Include wholegrain bread, rice, and pasta in your meals.
– Increase Fruit and Vegetable Intake:
Aim for at least five portions daily to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
– Limit Sodium: :
Reduce intake of processed foods and limiting sodium intake to under 2,300mg daily can significantly reduce hypertension risk, a leading cause of kidney damage.
2. Regular Exercise
– Aim for 150 Minutes of Moderate Activity every week:
Engage in activities like cycling or fast walking weekly, along with strength exercises.
– Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Exercise helps manage weight, reducing CKD risk.
3. Manage Underlying Conditions
– Control Diabetes and Hypertension:
Regular monitoring and management through medication and lifestyle changes are crucial.
– Monitor Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure:
Keep these within healthy ranges to prevent kidney damage.
4. Avoid Harmful Habits
– Quit Smoking:
Smoking increases the risk of kidney disease and other cardiovascular conditions.
-Limit Alcohol Intake:
Stick to recommended limits to avoid raising blood pressure and cholesterol. Better still, avoid it completely.
– Avoiding prolonged use of over-the-counter pills:
Avoiding prolonged use of over-the-counter pain medications (NSAIDs) can prevent analgesic nephropathy, which accounts for approximately 5% of new CKD cases annually.
5. Stay Hydrated and Manage Stress
-Drink Adequate Water:
Maintaining consistent hydration with 2-3 litres of water daily reduces kidney stone risk by up to 40% and supports optimal kidney function.
– Reduce Stress:
Engage in stress-reducing activities like meditation or yoga.
In summary, World Kidney Day 2025 highlights the significance of proactive strategies in safeguarding kidney health. Advanced artificial intelligence algorithms are now being deployed to identify early kidney function decline in routine blood tests before clinical symptoms appear, however it is imperative to be vigilant of the symptoms. By promoting awareness, early identification, and healthy practices, India has the potential to build a future where fewer individuals experience the severe consequences of chronic kidney disease. Together, we can effect change and ensure the health of kidneys for future generations.
