Our kidneys work continuously day and night, without stopping. They play an important role in filtering waste products from the blood, maintaining the balance of fluids in the body, controlling blood pressure and keeping bones and blood vessels healthy. But the matter of concern is that as kidney function begins to decline, no obvious symptoms are often visible in the body in the initial stages. That’s why chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often called the “silent disease.”
**Why is kidney disease on the rise around the world?**
The latest warning from three research papers published in the medical journal *The Lancet* shows that chronic kidney disease is fast becoming one of the world’s fastest growing health challenges. According to the report, approximately 788 to 844 million adults worldwide are currently affected by the disease; Additionally, it is estimated to become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.
Experts blame reasons like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease and increasing age for the increase in cases of kidney disease. Apart from this, today’s sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits are putting a lot of pressure on the kidneys. The World Health Organization (WHO) also recognizes that kidney disease often progresses without symptoms in the early stages, so timely testing and detection of the disease is very important.
**Why is it important to detect kidney disease in its early stages?**
The first study of its kind published in *The Lancet* has revealed that new techniques are now being used to detect kidney disease. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria screening, advanced imaging techniques, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other modern technologies are proving important in detecting the disease at an early stage. Researchers believe that the earlier the disease is detected, the better the kidneys can be saved and protected.
**Is there any difference in kidney disease between men and women?**
Another study revealed an interesting thing: Researchers found that kidney disease affects men and women differently. The structure of the kidneys, the progression of the disease, and the body’s response to treatment can be quite different in both sexes. Therefore, in the future, greater emphasis will be placed on tailoring kidney disease treatment to the specific needs of each individual.
**A ray of hope**
A third study shows a ray of hope. This suggests that new drugs – such as SGLT2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and other modern treatments – show good results in slowing the progression of kidney disease. Apart from this, these medicines can also help in improving heart health. However, experts say patients often suffer from multiple co-morbidities, such as diabetes, obesity and heart disease – so treatment requires a holistic approach.
**What harms the kidneys?**
According to Aman Puri, founder of Steadfast Nutrition, bad eating habits can also have a negative impact on the kidneys. He says that a diet high in protein, as well as excessive consumption of salt, sugar and unhealthy fats can put too much pressure on the kidneys. They warn that some warning signs should not be ignored; These include – persistent swelling of the hands, feet or around the eyes; Change in urination pattern; foamy urine; constant fatigue; loss of appetite; Metallic taste in mouth; And muscle cramps at night.