Call for early detection, lifestyle changes, addressing misconceptions
SRINAGAR: Cases of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) have doubled in the past decade in India and Jammu & Kashmir, caused by rising diabetes, hypertension and coronary diseases, according to health experts.
Dr Tanveer, a urologist, speaking to KNO said that CKD accounts for 2-3% of all deaths in India, with approximately 1-1.5 lakh deaths annually. “Kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood, maintaining electrolyte balance and regulating blood pressure. However, if left untreated, kidney diseases can lead to severe complications, including kidney failure,” he said.
Prof (Dr) Syed Sajjad Nazir, HoD Urology, SS Hospital GMC Srinagar, stressed the importance of lifestyle management for kidney health. He advised people to maintain hydration, adopt a balanced diet, monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels, limit alcohol consumption, quit smoking, exercise regularly, manage stress and undergo routine check-ups.
Dr Nazir said kidney disease can affect anyone and often progresses silently. Common kidney-related issues include Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), kidney stones, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), acute kidney injury and diabetic nephropathy.
Experts identified the primary causes of kidney disease as diabetes, hypertension, chronic glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and kidney stones, long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), certain antibiotics, dehydration and poor water intake, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle.
Doctors urged people to stay vigilant and adopt healthy habits to prevent kidney diseases. By managing risk factors like diabetes, hypertension and diet, individuals can protect their kidney health and reduce the chances of developing kidney-related complications, they said.
