World Kidney Day 2025: Causes, risks and tips to keep kidneys healthy

Causes of kidney diseases: Increased blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys' filtering units, leading to diabetic nephropathy. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in people with diabetes and almost 1 in 3 adults with diabetes has CKD (Image: Canva)

Kidney disease is a common health concern across the globe. Unhealthy lifestyle habits, poor dietary choices and chronic illnesses, are said to be some of the culprits. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) identifies diabetes and high blood pressure as the leading causes of kidney disease.

Chronic conditions are major contributors to kidney damage. Diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure place immense strain on the kidneys, while a family history of kidney disease and obesity further increase the risk, says Dr Shashidhar Shree Niwas, Clinical Director and HOD Nephrology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram. "Other significant factors compromising kidney health include the regular and indiscriminate use of over-the-counter medications, smoking, known to cause proteinuria, can lead to chronic kidney damage, and the unnecessary use of contrast agents during diagnostic tests, like CT scans, further increase the risk,” he explains.

Causes of kidney disease:

The kidneys, essential for filtering waste and balancing fluids, can be compromised by various conditions:

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• Diabetes Mellitus: Increased blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys' filtering units, leading to diabetic nephropathy. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common in people with diabetes and almost 1 in 3 adults with diabetes has CKD.

• Hypertension or high blood pressure: High pressure can harm blood vessels, reducing kidney function over time.

• Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units impairs their ability to remove waste.

• Polycystic kidney disease: A genetic disorder causing cysts in the kidneys, leading to enlargement and loss of function.

Risk factors of kidney disease:

Beyond primary causes, several risk factors can also result in kidney disease:

• Obesity: Excess weight increases the risk of diabetes and hypertension, both leading causes of kidney disease.

• Smoking: Tobacco use accelerates the progression of kidney disease and increases protein leakage into urine.

• Overuse of medications: Frequent use of over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, can harm the kidneys.

• Environmental toxins: Exposure to pollutants and heavy metals can impair kidney function.

To safeguard kidney health, consider the following:

• Go for regular screenings: Especially if you have risk factors, regular check-ups can detect early signs of kidney dysfunction.

• Always eat healthy: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health.

• Keep yourself hydrated: Adequate water intake aids the kidneys in flushing out toxins.

• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps maintain optimal body weight and blood pressure.