Diabetes Identified as Leading Cause in Telangana
Hyderabad, March 14th, 2024 – In observance of World Kidney Day, Virinchi Hospital hosted an awareness campaign today, shedding light on the growing concerns surrounding kidney health globally. This annual initiative, held every second Thursday of March, aims to educate the public about the importance of kidney function and the imperative need for preventive measures against kidney diseases.
Chronic kidney diseases affect millions worldwide, posing significant health risks such as kidney failure, cardiovascular complications, and mortality if left untreated. Risk factors include uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking, and genetic predispositions. Timely detection and management are pivotal in halting disease progression and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. K. S. Nayak, Head of Nephrology & Renal Transplantation at Virinchi Hospital, highlighted findings from a recent study conducted in India. Diabetes emerged as the leading cause of chronic kidney disease, with a predominant impact on individuals aged around 50, notably affecting a higher percentage of males, particularly in rural areas. The study reported an average glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 40 ml/min/1.73 m² among affected patients.
In Telangana, diabetes stands out as the primary contributor to chronic kidney disease, followed by hypertension. Of particular concern is the rise in Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Origin (CKDu) among the younger populace. This trend underscores the profound influence of diabetes on kidney health and the escalating threat posed by CKDu, whose origins remain elusive but present a significant health hazard, particularly to younger demographics, emphasized Dr. Nayak.
Recognizing the importance of early detection, Dr. Naveen Kumar Mattewada, Senior Consultant Nephrologist & Transplant Physician at Virinchi Hospital, outlined common symptoms of CKD, urging vigilance for signs such as fatigue, swelling, changes in urine, and cardiovascular complications.
Dr. Naveen Kumar Medi, Senior Consultant Nephrologist at Virinchi Hospital, underscored preventive measures including blood sugar and pressure control, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular health screenings, particularly for at-risk individuals.
Treatment strategies for CKD focus on symptom management, disease progression mitigation, and complication prevention, ranging from medication regimens to renal replacement therapies (RRT) such as transplantation and dialysis. Dr. Nayak highlighted advancements in RRT options, including home hemodialysis and portable dialysis devices, offering greater flexibility and improved patient outcomes.
Reflecting on Virinchi Hospital’s commitment to innovation, Dr. Sai Ravi Shankar, President of the institution, highlighted pioneering efforts in organ transplantation, including interstate exchanges, cementing their reputation as leaders in transplant medicine.
Mr. Satyanarayana Vedula, Vice Chairman of Virinchi Hospitals, emphasized the institution’s dedication to research and innovation, exemplified by groundbreaking treatments such as Allo-dialysis, which leverages patient attendants as dialysis partners, alleviating strain on healthcare resources while ensuring patient-centric care.
