For improved kidney health, balance medical help & environmental aspects

World Kidney Day, observed on the second Thursday of March, every year, is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of kidney health and the prevention of kidney disease. The theme for World Kidney Day, 2026, ‘Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet’, highlights the fact that our health is closely connected with environmental health.

The chronic kidney disease (CKD) is recognised as a major public health challenge worldwide. It is estimated that approximately one in 10 people globally may have kidney disease. Many are not aware of it in the early stages. The CKD progresses silently and may only become apparent when kidney function has significantly declined, at which point patients may require long-term dialysis or kidney transplantation.

The country is experiencing a similar and concerning rise in kidney disease. Many studies suggest that between 11% and 17% of the adult population in India may have some degree of CKD. The increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus, hypertension and ageing populations has contributed significantly to this growing burden, in addition to the contribution of tropical infections, and the exposure to drugs and toxins. As a result, kidney disease has emerged as an important non-communicable disease affecting millions of individuals and placing considerable strain on healthcare systems.

Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in educating patients about the symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures of chronic kidney disease. It includes screening and testing high-risk individuals, such as those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease; providing holistic care that includes medical treatment, lifestyle counselling, and emotional support; prescribing and managing medications to control underlying conditions and routinely monitoring the patient's kidney function and general health in order to modify treatment plans as necessary to prevent the progression of CKD to more advanced stages.

This year’s World Kidney Day calls attention not only to medical management but also to environmental aspects. Climate change, rising temperatures, water scarcity and environmental pollution may indirectly influence kidney health by increasing the risk of dehydration and exposure to harmful substances. Protecting natural resources, ensuring access to safe drinking water, and promoting sustainable agricultural and environmental practices are essential measures that benefit both planetary and human health.

The World Kidney Day 2026 message highlights that the health of our kidneys cannot be separated from the health of our environment. This calls for sustainable environmental policies and coordinated public health efforts.

By encouraging awareness, early identification, and preventative measures, World Kidney Day acts as a crucial reminder of the significance of kidney health and the worldwide effects of kidney disease. To promote kidney health and guarantee that everyone has fair access to care, cooperation between medical experts, NGOs, community organisations, and individuals is crucial.

Goa govt has been actively promoting measures to improve public health by providing free and affordable treatment to patients. The GMC’s nephrology department provides patients with kidney diseases free treatment medications and round the clock dialysis facilities.

Kidney transplantation (both deceased donor and living related kidney transplantation) are also performed free of cost by the departments of nephrology and urology. Awareness programmes are also conducted across various health centres in the state.

(The writer is dean, professor and head, department of nephrology, Goa Medical College)