Author: Sutun Nayak

New Delhi [India], March 13: “Are Your Kidneys OK?” – This is the theme of World Kidney Day 2025, a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health and the importance of early detection and prevention. Our kidneys are essential for filtering waste, regulating blood pressure, and balancing the body’s fluids. Yet, kidney disease often develops silently, without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. This World Kidney Day, it’s time to ask yourself: Are your kidneys OK? In this article, we’ll share expert advice on how to protect your kidneys, recognize early signs of potential issues, and take proactive steps to maintain optimal kidney health.

1. Dr Raman Kumar Malik, MBBS, DNB (Nephro) AIIMS, Sr. Consultant in Nephrology & Transplant Physician, Fortis hospital Mulund Mumbai, Godrej Hospital Mumbai

Kidneys are often the silent warriors of our body, working tirelessly to keep us healthy. Unfortunately, kidney diseases often progress quietly, without obvious symptoms until they reach an advanced stage. That’s why early detection is crucial. Regular screening, especially for high-risk individuals like those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease, can be life-saving. Simple tests such as blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar testing, urine analysis, and serum creatinine measurement can provide valuable insights into kidney health. Prevention is always better than cure. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and avoiding excessive use of painkillers Good control of Hypertension and Diabetes can significantly lower the risk of kidney damage. On this World Kidney Day, I urge everyone to prioritize their kidney health. It’s never too early to care for your kidneys.

2. Dr Abhishek Shirkande, Consultant Nephrologist & Kidney Transplant Physician Sion, Mumbai

Dr Abhishek Shirkande highlights who should get a kidney function test to ensure early detection of kidney disease. Individuals with existing health conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes (annually from diagnosis) or Type 1 diabetes (starting five years after diagnosis), should be regularly screened. Those with long-term high blood pressure, heart disease, or a history of acute kidney injury (AKI) are also at higher risk and need monitoring. Additionally, people with recurrent kidney stones, structural abnormalities, or genetic conditions like polycystic kidney disease (PKD) or Alport syndrome should undergo regular kidney function tests. A family history of kidney disease also increases the risk. Children at risk, such as those born with low birth weight, a solitary functioning kidney, or congenital kidney abnormalities, need monitoring as well. Older adults, while experiencing natural kidney function decline, should distinguish between aging and disease-related issues. Certain ethnic groups with specific genetic markers, such as APOL1 variants, are also more predisposed to CKD. Regular testing is crucial for early intervention and prevention.

3. Dr Mangesh Patil, MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DNB (Genito-Urinary Surgery), MNAMS (General Surgery), Robotic surgery training (USA), Head of Minimal Invasive Urology & Endourology, Consultant Urologist & Robotic Uro-Oncosurgeon (Robotic Surgery) – Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Girgaon, Saifee Hospital,  Urocare Clinic, Andheri East, Mumbai

On World Kidney Day 2025, it’s crucial to reflect on the importance of kidney health. As a urologist, I often see patients unaware of early kidney disease because symptoms are subtle until significant damage occurs. Kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining electrolyte balance. Early detection is key to preventing complications like chronic kidney disease (CKD). Regular screening is essential, especially for those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney issues. Simple tests, such as blood pressure monitoring, urine analysis, and kidney function tests, can detect early signs of trouble. Staying hydrated, following a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, and maintaining a healthy weight are effective ways to protect your kidneys. Avoid overuse of painkillers and monitor your blood sugar levels. Prioritizing kidney health through proactive care can prevent long-term complications and improve overall well-being.

4. Dr Kanav Anand. MBBS, MD Pediatrics (Gold Medalist), FPN(RGUHS). Senior Consultant Pediatric Nephrologist and Kidney Transplant Specialist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, India

This year’s World Kidney Day emphasizes the critical importance of early diagnosis in preventing kidney disease and maintaining kidney health. Kidney ailments often develop silently, without clear symptoms, making early detection essential for effective treatment and intervention.

As a pediatric nephrologist, Dr Kanav Anand urges parents and caregivers to prioritize regular kidney assessments for their children. Timely detection can help prevent lasting kidney damage and improve health outcomes for children affected by kidney issues.

Key preventive measures include staying well-hydrated, eating a nutritious diet, avoiding the overuse of pain relievers, and managing conditions such as high blood pressure. These steps are vital in maintaining healthy kidney function.

By raising awareness about the significance of early detection and prevention, Dr Anand stresses that we can protect kidney health for future generations. He calls for collective action to ensure everyone has access to the resources needed to identify kidney problems early and preserve kidney function.

5. Dr V.R Raju. MD, DM. Chief Consultant Nephrologist, Blue Bliss Hospital, Bengaluru

The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining overall health by filtering toxins, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure, and ensuring proper electrolyte balance. Unfortunately, kidney disease often progresses silently, with symptoms becoming noticeable only when the damage is already advanced. This makes early detection absolutely crucial. Regular screening, especially for those with high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease, can be lifesaving.

Preventive measures are equally important. Adopting a kidney-friendly lifestyle — staying adequately hydrated, following a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, exercising regularly, and avoiding overuse of painkillers — can significantly reduce the risk of kidney disease. Additionally, managing underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes with proper medical guidance is essential.

On this World Kidney Day, let’s raise awareness about the importance of kidney health. Timely diagnosis and preventive care are the keys to safeguarding your kidneys and enhancing your quality of life.

6. Dr Kuldeep Sharma, MBBS, MS, DNB, Mch, Urologist (Gold Medalist, Director- Kg Stone Hospital, Ajmer

This year’s World Kidney Day theme, “ARE YOUR KIDNEYS OKAY?” serves as a crucial reminder for everyone to check the status of their kidney health. Kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste, regulating blood pressure, and balancing fluids and electrolytes. However, kidney diseases often go unnoticed until they reach an advanced stage. Early detection and prevention can save lives and help maintain overall health, says Dr Kuldeep Sharma, a renowned Urologist at KG Stone Hospital, Ajmer.

To keep your kidneys healthy, Dr Sharma advises following a few simple do’s. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight. If you’re at risk, it’s important to get routine kidney function tests, such as creatinine and urine albumin.

Equally important are the things to avoid. Don’t ignore symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination. Limit excessive salt, processed foods, and meat. Avoid self-medicating with painkillers, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.

7. Dr L. H. Suratkal, DNB (Nephrology), Prof and Senior Cconsultant , Lilavati Hospital And Research Centre, Sainath Polyclinic, S.V Road, Andheri West Mumbai

Kidneys are remarkable organs that silently perform crucial functions, including filtering waste, balancing body fluids, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining essential electrolyte levels. Unfortunately, kidney disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection incredibly important. Regular screening, especially for high-risk groups like individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease, can be life-saving. Simple preventive measures such as maintaining optimal blood pressure, managing blood sugar levels, staying adequately hydrated, and reducing salt intake can protect kidney health significantly. Additionally, avoiding the overuse of painkillers and adopting a balanced, kidney-friendly diet are key steps toward prevention.

This World Kidney Day, let’s focus on spreading awareness about the importance of early detection and preventive care. Remember, by taking proactive steps and prioritizing regular check-ups, we can ensure our kidneys remain healthy and functional for years to come.

If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.

New Delhi [India], March 13: World Kidney Day 2025 serves as an important reminder to take charge of our kidney health. Our kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste, balancing fluids, and maintaining vital body functions, yet they often go unnoticed until problems arise. Early detection is key to preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and protecting these vital organs from long-term damage. In honor of this global awareness day, experts are offering essential advice on how to recognize the signs, protect your kidneys, and take proactive steps toward better kidney health.

1. Dr (Prof) Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, MD, DNB (Nephro), FRCP, FAMS, FANS,  FISN, FISOT, FInt.SN, Former Head of Nephrology, AIIMS, New Delhi (2009-2023), 40 years + Experience at AIIMS, Consultant Nephrology and Kidney Transplant Medicine

Dr (Prof) Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, nephrologist and transplant physician at Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, MD, DNB (Nephro), FRCP, FAMS, FANS, FISN, FISOT, FInt.SN, Former Head of Nephrology, AIIlMS, New Delhi (2009-2023), 40 years + Experience at AlIMS, World Kidney Day (WKD), celebrated annually since 2006 on the 2nd Thursday of March, aims to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease (CKD), its complications, and the need for dialysis and kidney transplants. This year marks the 20th WKD. CKD affects 10% of the adult population and is caused by various conditions. Dr (Prof) Sanjay Kumar Agarwal emphasized that early detection is key to managing CKD effectively, as it can lead to reversal in some cases and slow progression in most. Early intervention also helps prevent complications like anemia, high blood pressure, heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and infections. CKD progresses through stages, from minimal to end stage, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant. High-risk groups, such as individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, those over 60, or those with a family history of CKD and past kidney damageshould get screened annually by measuring amount of protein loss in urine and blood creatinine to estimate kidney function. Dr. Agarwal highlighted that CKD does not develop suddenly and takes years and decades for reaching from minimal to end stage. Early detection offers ample time to manage and prevent severe outcomes.

2. Dr Munindra Kumar, MD (Med), CCEBDM (Diabetology), DNB (Neph), MNAMS, MRCP-SCE(Neph)[Glasgow, Edin & UK], ISOT cert(RenalTx. Path), Sr. Consultant Nephrologist & Renal Transplant Physician (New Delhi), Co-Founder & Med Director Of NEPHRUS

On World Kidney Day, Dr Munindra Kumar, Co-Founder of NEPHRUS (Chain of Kidney Care & Dialysis Centers), extends his wishes for healthy, well-functioning kidneys to all. He expresses his sincere hope for remission and a better quality of life for those battling kidney ailments or undergoing hemodialysis.

As an expert in the field, Dr Kumar emphasizes the vital role kidneys play in overall health, noting that kidney dysfunction can have serious health and financial consequences. He advocates for kidney health evaluations starting in adolescence or childhood and stresses the importance of regular checkups for high-risk individuals, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes, severe hypertension, obesity, or existing kidney conditions. Dr Kumar highlights the kidney’s crucial roles in acid-base balance, bone health, and hemoglobin regulation. He calls for prioritizing renal health, bridging healthcare disparities, and promoting organ donation to support the underprivileged.

“Healthy Kidneys, Healthier Lives!” he concludes.

Jai Hind.

3. Dr Sundar  Sankaran, MD, DNB (Nephrology), FRCP (Glasgow) FISOT, Ex-Chairman Indian Society of Nephrology SC, Ex Adjunct Professor of Nephrology, MAHE, Program Director-Aster Institute of Renal Transplantation, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bangalore

Dr Sundar Sankaran emphasizes the importance of kidney health awareness and early detection for prevention. He offers a simple checklist to protect your kidneys: Eat smart by reducing salt, ultra-processed foods, and sugar; stay active with regular exercise; hydrate well to support kidney filtration; and monitor blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. He advises being cautious with medications, particularly NSAIDs, and consulting your doctor about any prescriptions. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol is essential, as both can damage blood vessels, including those in the kidneys. Dr Sankaran also stresses the importance of regular kidney function tests for individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. He encourages vigilance for warning signs like swelling, fatigue, and changes in urination. Managing stress through mindfulness, yoga, and breathing exercises can also protect kidney function. Lastly, maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of kidney disease. Early detection saves lives—schedule a kidney check-up today!

4. Dr Waheedu Zzaman, MBBS, MS(Gen Surgery), MCh (Urology), DNB (Urology), MNAMS.DIP LAP Urology (Strasbourg, France), Robotic Urology Training, Roswell Park Institute, Buffalo (NY, USA) – Director Urology  and  Renal  transplant, Max Super Speciality  Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi

Kidney health is often neglected until the damage is severe. Unfortunately, many kidney-related issues are silent in their early stages, making regular screening absolutely essential. This is particularly crucial for high-risk individuals — those with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease. Early detection allows timely intervention and can significantly improve outcomes.

Leading a healthy lifestyle plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your kidneys. Staying well-hydrated, reducing salt intake, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding excessive use of painkillers can all contribute to kidney health. On the treatment front, medical advancements like robotic-assisted surgery and kidney transplantation have revolutionized how we manage severe cases, providing patients with safer and more effective options.

This World Kidney Day, my message is clear: Don’t wait for symptoms to emerge. Take charge of your kidney health through preventive measures and regular check-ups. Remember, prevention is far better and simpler than cure.” — Dr Waheedu Zzaman, Urology & Renal Transplantation Specialist.

5. Dr Topoti Mukherjee, Lead Consultant – Nephrology & Kidney Transplant

Dr Topoti Mukherjee urges everyone to reflect on their kidney health this World Kidney Day 2025 and asks, “Are your kidneys healthy?” Kidney diseases often show no symptoms until they reach advanced stages, making early detection crucial. Individuals with diabetes or high blood pressure must maintain regular medical consultations and screenings. Dr Mukherjee emphasizes controlling blood sugar and blood pressure, avoiding over-the-counter and nephrotoxic medications, and following a healthy lifestyle with salt restriction to prevent kidney damage. In the later stages of chronic kidney disease, symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, itching, loss of appetite, breathlessness, and fatigue. Swelling around the eyes, hands, feet, or ankles, along with difficulty concentrating or unexplained fatigue, may also indicate kidney problems. Foamy or blood-tinged urine can signal kidney dysfunction. Kidney disease poses the greatest threat in its later stages, but with careful management, renal health can be preserved. Dr Mukherjee stresses the importance of prioritizing kidney health and managing it optimally over time.

6. Dr Manish Mahajan, Senior Consultant Nephrology and Renal Transplant Physician, Kailash Hospital MBBS, MD (Med), DM (Nephro), MRCP, FICM, Diploma in Diabetes MS Renal Medicine (UK), Nephrotouch Diabetes Kidney And Heart Clinic, Noida

Kidneys are remarkable organs that play a critical role in maintaining our body’s internal balance. Unfortunately, kidney-related issues often go undetected until they reach an advanced stage, making early detection essential. Regular screening, especially for those with hypertension, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease, is a crucial step toward prevention. A healthy lifestyle, including adequate hydration, a balanced diet low in salt and processed foods, controlled blood pressure, and avoiding the overuse of painkillers, can significantly lower the risk of kidney damage.

It’s also important to understand the connection between kidney health and neurological well-being. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to neurological complications like cognitive decline, nerve damage, and even strokes. Therefore, protecting kidney health is not just about avoiding dialysis; it’s about enhancing overall health and quality of life. Taking proactive measures today can ensure healthier kidneys and a healthier life tomorrow.

7. Dr Ganesh Srinivasa Prasad P, Consultant Nephrologist and Transplant Physician, Narayana Health City, Bengaluru

Kidneys are the silent guardians of our health, performing vital functions like filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure. Unfortunately, kidney diseases often go unnoticed until they reach an advanced stage. Early detection is crucial to prevent irreversible damage. Simple tests like blood pressure monitoring, urine analysis, and serum creatinine can help identify potential issues before they escalate.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is equally essential—staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding excessive salt intake, and exercising regularly all contribute to kidney health. Those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease should be particularly vigilant. On this World Kidney Day, I urge everyone to prioritize kidney health through regular check-ups and preventive measures. Remember, early detection and timely intervention can make all the difference.

8. Dr Vikram Kalra, MBBS; MD; DM ( Nephrology, AIIMS), Founder Fellow IPF, Addl. Director, Dept of Nephrology and Kidney Transplantation, Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, Dwarka, Delhi

Kidneys are remarkable organs that tirelessly filter waste and excess fluid from our blood, ensuring the body’s internal environment remains stable. Unfortunately, kidney disease is often silent, progressing without obvious symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. This is why early detection is critical. People with diabetes, hypertension, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease are at higher risk and should undergo regular screenings. Simple tests like blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar levels, urine analysis, and kidney function tests can provide essential insights into kidney health. Prevention, however, goes hand in hand with early detection. Adopting a kidney-friendly lifestyle by maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, and avoiding overuse of painkillers can significantly reduce the risk of kidney damage. On this World Kidney Day, let’s spread awareness and encourage everyone to take proactive steps to protect their kidneys. As timely intervention can truly improve quality of life and save lives.

If you have any objection to this press release content, kindly contact pr.error.rectification@gmail.com to notify us. We will respond and rectify the situation in the next 24 hours.