Experts say that kidney disease is not only for the elderly

As the world observes World Kidney Day on 13 March, medical experts are ringing alarm on the increasing prevalence of kidney related diseases among young Indians. Traditionally considered a health concern for older individuals, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is now also visible among adolescents and young adults, which are surrounded by poor lifestyle options, irregular supplements and lack of awareness.

Studies indicate that kidney problems affect around 10 to 15% of Indians, which cut all age groups including teenagers. Unlike other diseases, initial-phase does not offer a clear warning signs such as inflammation or changes in the production of urine in the disease, make regular screening necessary, Manisha Sahe, Professor and head of the Department of Nephrology at Osmania General Hospital. She warns that kidney disease is a silent killer who often shows no symptoms in its early stages.

Need testing between high -risk groups

“In many countries, regular kidney function tests such as urinary albumin and creatinine blood tests are conducted annually. These tests are inexpensive, yet provide significant insights into kidney health. In India, very least, high -risk persons should undergo these tests, ”Dr. Says Manisha. She identifies high -risk groups, as individuals with family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart condition, obesity or kidney disease. The youth coming in contact with pesticides, persistent users of painkillers, and women with hypertension related to pregnancy are also weak.

Addressing the need for lifestyle amendments, Dr. Manisha emphasizes the importance of maintaining ideal body weight through regular exercise, consuming a balanced diet and limiting the intake of salt up to five grams per day. She recommends excessive fast food consumption and hidden sources of soy sauce such as soy sauce, instead recommends natural seasoning such as lemon and pepper. Stay hydrated, ensuring six to eight hours of sleep, and managing blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels are important steps towards kidney health.

Supplementary, Increase Risk in Insufficient Water

The growing concern over kidney health among young people is echoed by Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU) advisor Nephrologist andula Naveen Reddy. He has seen a significant increase in kidney related matters between Jean Z (individuals born between 1997 and 2012). “Many gym-goers raised serum creatinine levels, while some experience protein leakage in their urine. Additionally, stress and insufficient water intake between students is leading to a high phenomenon of urinary infection, ”he explains.

In Ainu, three to four kidneys related to individuals between the ages of 16 and 20 have a noticeable increase every month, compared to previous years. Routine screening, especially for students planning to study abroad, have revealed the underlying kidney issues that may otherwise be disorganized. Dr. Reddy urges young individuals to avoid over-the-counter pain reliever, reduce whey protein supplements, and focus on plant-based protein sources. He also highlights the importance of proper hydration, given that many students reduced their water intake due to poor toilets in schools and colleges, increasing the risk of kidney stones and urine infections.

Excessive foaming in the urine (indication of protein leakage), fever with abdominal pain, a burning sensation when urinating, and blood scars in the urine should not be ignored. Although these conditions can not always be life-threatening, early detection and timely intervention is important, Dr. Reddy Note.

Awareness is low

Despite the increasing prevalence of kidney issues among young Indians, awareness is dangerously low. Experts say that prevention is far more effective than treatment, as dialysis and kidney transplant remain inaccessible to many people due to limited resources. “India performs around 15,000 kidney transplants per year, while the demand is about two lakhs. About 125 liters of water is required with each dialysis session, even expanding dialysis features cannot be met. The only viable solution is to prevent kidney failure in the first place, ”Dr. Manisha says.

D. Mr. Bhushan highlights additional risk factors at the Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS) of Nizam, Head of the Department of Professor and Nephrology Department. Partrum infants with birth weight below 2.5 kg are at greater risk of developing renal complications later in life. Teens and young adults aged 15 to 20 who suffer from obesity, as well as people with family history of kidney disease also face growing vulnerability. Additionally, childhood kidney conditions such as nephrotic syndrome, which leads to excessive protein loss and body inflammation, should be closely monitored. Structural renal abnormalities require initial surgery, leading to further increase in the risk of kidney disease in adulthood.

One of the most unseen warnings signs is the presence of blood in the urine, which dismisses several once an occurrence. Dr. Raju also enhances concerns over widespread use of whey protein and protein supplements such as creatin, which can contribute to kidney damage. Prolonged use of painkillers, antacids and other drugs without medical supervision only increases risk.

Hypertension and diabetes, sometimes accidentally reveal, are also significant contributors in kidney disease. Dr. Raju explains that CKD is often touching until about 90% of the kidney function is lost. Even when symptoms appear, they are often wrong for unrelated issues, such as back pain. A common misunderstanding is that kidney failure reduces urine production; In fact, many patients on dialysis still pass through normal amounts, they said.

To compete with this silent progress, Dr. Raju’s advice is that high -risk persons undergo creatinine tests every six months. People with family history of kidney problems or other risk factors should opt for annual check-up. He advises preterum and low-born individuals to avoid excessive physical exertion for rapid weight gain and warns against the irregular use of complementary and drugs.

For children, kidney disease can arise from cystic dysplastic kidney, polycystic kidney, hereditary kidney diseases and conditions such as chronic glomerular and tubular disorders. According to Senior Advisor Pediatric Nephrologist VVR Satya Prasad at Rainbow Children Hospital, the CKD is irreversible and requires dialysis or kidney implants for survival. Since the kidney filters waste from the blood and fluids, their failure results in harmful waste accumulation, causing hypertension and ultimately, kidney failure. End-stage renal disease occurs when the kidney loses a 90% function, requiring immediate medical intervention.

Increase in kidney disease cases between younger generations, prioritizing regular screening, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being cautious about early symptoms can help move forward before curbing this growing health crisis.

(siddarth.kumar@thehindu.co.in)