The kidneys are more than just basic organs inside our bodies, working hard to keep our blood clean and get rid of wastes. But sometimes, we forget about them until there's a serious kidney problem.
In India, around 10 percent people have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and every year, more than one lakh cases of renal failure are reported. That's why on World Kidney Day, people all over the world join hands to talk about kidney health and why it's so important to detect kidney problems early.
Here are some key strategies for early detection and diagnosis of kidney diseases, suggested by Dr Priyesh Damani, MD, DNB(Nephrologist), Consultant, Nephrologist & Transplant Physician, Sterling Hospitals.
We must encourage people, especially those with high-risk having diabetes or hypertension, to undergo routine kidney function tests. This can aid in identifying potential issues before they escalate.
Education is key in early detection. Public awareness campaigns on the significance of kidney health, risk factors, and symptoms of kidney diseases can empower individuals to seek medical attention promptly. Through media platforms, educational seminars, and community outreach programmes, knowledge about kidney health can be disseminated widely.
Recent medical research has identified biomarkers that indicate kidney damage. Incorporating these biomarkers into diagnostic protocols can help improve the accuracy of early detection efforts. Biomarker testing provides useful information about kidney function and assists in indicative assessments.
Through virtual consultations and remote monitoring devices, healthcare providers can keep track of a patient’s kidney function parameters regularly. This proactive approach enables early detection of variations from baseline values, leading to timely interventions.
Collaboration between primary care physicians and nephrology specialists is necessary for timely diagnosis and management of kidney diseases. The set-up of referral pathways and multidisciplinary care teams enables patients with suspected kidney disorders to receive quick evaluation and initial treatment.
Promoting healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercises, balanced diet, and adequate hydration, plays a crucial role in kidney disease prevention. Educational programmes that discuss lifestyle alterations can help individuals reduce their risk of developing kidney diseases and eliminate the existing risk factors.
Utilising AI platforms and methods to scrutinise medical data is essential in improving the accuracy and efficiency of kidney disease treatment. AI-driven diagnostic tools can analyse imaging studies, laboratory results, and patient history to identify subtle signs of kidney dysfunction, that contribute further to early detection efforts.
Early detection and diagnosis of kidney diseases are paramount in preventing complications and improving outcomes for patients. By implementing these diverse strategies, we can strive towards safeguarding kidney health and promoting overall well-being on World Kidney Day and beyond.
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