Small but Mighty in Function
Kidneys are one of the vital organs in the human body. Their function is to filter nitrogenous waste products from our body. Apart from this, there are several other functions, which include the formation of urine, synthesis of different hormones, regulation of salt-water balance and blood pressure, and activation of Vitamin D. Every day, the kidneys filter around 180 litres of blood. Altered renal function leads to severe disturbances in the normal regulation of the human body. That’s why it is important to care for our kidneys regularly.
World Kidney Day
To spread awareness of this importance, the second Thursday of March is observed as World Kidney Day every year. This initiative was taken by the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF) in 2006. Apart from aiming to spread awareness, it also aims to reduce the frequency and impact of kidney disease and associated health problems. Globally, around 850 million people are living with some form of kidney disease, which represents over 10% of the world’s population. This year, in 2025, the theme of the day is “Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Your Kidney Health.” This theme emphasizes spreading awareness regarding the early detection of kidney disease.
Who Is at Risk of Getting Kidney Disease?
Patients with comorbidities like Diabetes Mellitus and Hypertension are at a higher risk of developing kidney disease. Approximately 1 in 3 adults, i.e., 33% of the diabetic population, have chronic kidney disease, whereas around 1 in 5 patients suffering from hypertension have the disease. People addicted to unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol are also at high risk of developing kidney disease. The unnecessary use of painkiller medicines is another cause of kidney disease.
Is Your Kidney Health on Track? Here's How to Find Out
A regular annual or quarterly health checkup helps monitor kidney health. Swelling in the hands and feet, reduced urine output or changes in urine color, loss of appetite, weakness, headache, uncontrolled and unusual back pain are general symptoms that indicate irregular or disturbed kidney function. This is when one should approach a doctor and get proper treatment. Early intervention can help restore the kidneys to normal functioning.
Renal Replacement Therapies: A Savior
If early detection of kidney disease does not occur, medications fail to work, and the doctor advises the patient to undergo Renal Replacement Therapies. Haemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis, and Renal Transplant are three different types of Renal Replacement Therapy. Choosing the appropriate therapy for further treatment depends on the patient’s health condition and financial status. These therapies serve as a bridge between life and death for the patient. Sustaining a healthy human life is the primary goal of these therapies. With some advancements, these therapies aim to provide more comfort and better health to the patient.
Save Your Kidneys, Live a Healthy Life!
Eventually, prevention is better than cure. Hence, people need to adopt a healthy routine, which may include the following:
- A nutritious, healthy diet
- Regular physical exercise
- Proper sleep of at least 6 to 8 hours
- Coping with stress
- Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption
- Getting regular health checkups
Following these habits will always help one stay healthy and live a peaceful life. However, it is high time to be aware of our kidney health and work on it with dedication.