Kidney diseases are emerging as a major public health challenge in India. Among them, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the most concerning, as it often progresses silently until advanced stages. Once kidneys fail, patients require dialysis or a transplant—treatments that are costly and not easily accessible to all. With rising lifestyle disorders, changing diets, and limited awareness, the number of Indians living with kidney problems is increasing every year.
What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Unlike acute kidney injury, which happens suddenly and may be reversible, CKD develops slowly and often goes unnoticed in its early stages.
How Common Are Kidney Diseases in India?
Studies show that the prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has risen from 11% (2011–2017) to over 16% (2018–2023).
Rural populations are more affected (15.3%) compared to urban populations (10.6%).
Men (14.8%) are slightly more affected than women (13.5%).
Among children and adolescents, nearly 1 in 20 already show signs of impaired kidney function.
Alarming trend: CKD is being diagnosed in people below 40 years, often at advanced stages.
Why Are Kidney Diseases Increasing?
1. Lifestyle & Chronic Diseases
Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney damage.
Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, and processed foods add to the risk.
2. Environmental & Medical Factors
Contaminated water and exposure to heavy metals damage kidneys.
Overuse of painkillers and self-medication worsen the problem.
Frequent infections, especially urinary infections, also play a role.
3. Genetic & Early-Life Risks
Babies born with low birth weight or congenital kidney problems are more vulnerable.
4. Gaps in Healthcare Access
CKD often goes undiagnosed because early symptoms are silent.
Many primary health centres lack basic screening tools.
Rural areas have fewer specialists and limited access to dialysis and transplant facilities.
The Burden on Society
Health Impact: Kidney disease increases the risk of heart problems, anemia, bone weakness, and early death.
Financial Strain: Dialysis and transplants are expensive, forcing families to bear heavy out-of-pocket costs.
Healthcare Pressure: Demand for dialysis centres and kidney specialists is growing faster than supply.
What Can Be Done?
Prevention & Awareness
Promote healthy lifestyle habits: low-salt diet, regular exercise, and avoiding processed foods.
Campaigns to raise awareness about the link between diabetes, blood pressure, and kidney health.
Early Detection
Routine kidney tests for high-risk groups (diabetic and hypertensive patients).
Screening at community health centres with simple blood and urine tests.
Better Access to Treatment
Establish more dialysis centres and expand transplant facilities.
Use telemedicine to reach rural and underserved areas.
Policy & Support
Government funding and insurance coverage for CKD patients.
Regulation to prevent overuse of harmful drugs and ensure safe drinking water.
Research & Data
Stronger kidney disease registries and more region-specific studies.
Focus on understanding CKD of unknown causes, especially in hotspots.
Looking Ahead – Takeaway
Kidney diseases are rising rapidly in India, affecting younger populations as well. If left unaddressed, this trend could put enormous strain on families and the healthcare system. However, with early diagnosis, healthier lifestyles, and better treatment access, much of the Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) burden can be prevented.
For individuals seeking expert care, Sandeep Memorial Hospital, recognized as the best urology hospital in Madurai, provides comprehensive kidney disease management. With experienced urology doctors in Madurai and specialized services, including kidney function evaluation and treatment for CKD, patients receive timely and personalized care. Consulting a kidney problem doctor in Madurai at Sandeep Memorial Hospital ensures early detection and effective management, helping patients protect their kidney health and improve quality of life.
References
PubMed – Meta-analysis of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) prevalence
The Print – Kidney function survey among children
Times of India – Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Younger Indians at risk of CKD
India Today – Diabetes & hypertension driving Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) surge
KD Hospital – Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) awareness & management
