‘Obesity is key factor for kidney problems’

Navi Mumbai: On World

Kidney

Day, doctors say that the biggest cause for concern is obesity. It is a high-risk factor and increases the chances of developing major key factors for chronic kidney ailments such as diabetes and hypertension. This results in chronic kidney disease and end stage renal failure.

According to a preliminary analysis out of 1,500 patients with kidney problems, the overall.prevalence of obesity is at 49% and the prevalence among women is 57%. Dr. Amol K Patil, consultant, urologist and kidney transplant physician at Apollo Hospital, said, “Education and awareness of the risks of obesity and leading a healthy lifestyle which includes proper nutrition and exercise can help in preventing obesity and kidney failure.”

He cited the example of 36-year-old Ritesh Thakkar, a resident of Vadodara who weighed 130 kg. Suffering from renal failure, his only chance of survival was a transplant but his weight was an issue.

“We successfully carried out a surgery but before that we had counselled him about his condition and the risk involved. He was also advised on how to lose weight. However because of his condition he could not reduce,” said Dr. Patil.