World Kidney Day

March 14 is observed as World Kidney Day. The day is meant to raise awareness about the importance of taking care of kidneys

10% of the population worldwide (77cr) is affected by chronic kidney disease Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and millions die each year because they do not have access to affordable treatment.

According the 2010 Global Burden of Disease study, chronic kidney disease was ranked 27th in the list of causes of total number of deaths worldwide in 1990, but rose to 18th in 2010. This degree of movement up the list was second only to that for HIV and AIDS.

Incidence of Chronic Kidney Disease in India is increasing at an alarming rate.Worse, in most cases, damage to kidneys is diagnosed when the disease has already progressed to critical stages, doctors say.

In India, at least 16% of the population suffers from Chronic Kidney Disease.

Approximately 1,75,000 kidneys are needed for transplantation in India every year to save the lives of patients suffering from kidney failure. Just about 4,000 transplants are conducted annually.

Causes of Kidney Failure : Diabetes and Hypertension, Kidney Stones, Intake of painkillers and alternative medicine like powdered heavy metal, Genetics.

Symptoms :: Feeling fatigued, Trouble concentrating, Poor appetite, Trouble sleeping, Muscle cramps at night, Swollen feet and ankles, Puffiness around eyes, especially in morning, Dry, itchy skin, Need to urinate more often, especially at night.

Prevention : Have your urine, blood and blood pressure checked regularly, Control blood sugar level, Control high blood pressure, See your doctor if you think you have a bladder infection, Stop smoking, Cut down weight, Cut down intake of salt and avoid processed food.