World Kidney Day 2025: Understanding the Importance of early Kidney Health Testing

World Kidney Day (WKD) is a world-wide awareness program, held annually on 2nd Thursday of March, to let the people know the importance of their kidneys in maintaining health, so that people take better care of this very important organ. The main aim of celebrating this day is to reduce the frequency of kidney diseases in high-risk population and also help to retard the progression of kidney disease in patients already have early kidney disease by timely and appropriate intervention. Kidney disease often develops unnoticed, with 8% to 10% of adults affected by some form of kidney damage. Many remain unaware until serious complications arise, and each year, millions die prematurely from conditions linked to kidney disease. Early detection can make a significant difference, as simple blood and urine tests help identify problems before they become severe.

This year WKD is being celebrated on 13th March 2025, with the theme “Are your kidneys OK? Detect early, protect kidney health” highlighting the need for proactive screening to identify kidney disease before it progresses to advanced stages.

Timely treatment is the primary strategy to protect kidney heath, prevent kidney disease progression and related complications and prevent heart and kidney related mortality. Kidney diseases are global health challenge affecting 850 million people. Almost 80% of the population with CKD reside in low-income countries. Prevalence of CKD increased by 33% between 1990 and 2017.

Who Should Get Their Kidneys Tested?

Kidney disease often develops without noticeable symptoms, making regular testing essential for those at higher risk. Testing is particularly important for:

• People with diabetes or high blood pressure – These are the leading causes of kidney disease. High blood sugar and elevated blood pressure can gradually damage the kidneys, often without symptoms in the early stages. Routine screening helps detect changes before significant harm occurs.
• Individuals with a family history of kidney disease – Genetic factors can increase susceptibility to kidney problems. Those with close relatives affected by kidney disease should undergo regular check-ups.
• People with heart disease or a history of stroke – The heart and kidneys are closely linked. Poor heart function can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease.
• Those over 60 years old – Kidney function declines naturally with age, making older adults more vulnerable to kidney-related complications. Routine testing helps in early detection and management.
• Individuals who are overweight or obese – Excess weight increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, all of which can affect kidney function.
• People with recurrent kidney infections or kidney stones – Frequent infections or blockages can cause long-term damage, leading to a decline in kidney function over time.
• Individuals taking long-term medications that affect the kidneys – Certain painkillers, antibiotics, and other medications can strain the kidneys when used for prolonged periods. Regular testing helps monitor kidney health in such cases.

Which Tests Help Assess Kidney Health?

Kidney function tests help detect problems early, even before symptoms appear. These tests assess how well the kidneys filter waste, regulate fluids, and maintain essential nutrients in the body.

• Blood Tests: The serum creatinine test measures the level of creatinine, a waste product that the kidneys should filter out.  An eGFR below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² for three months or more suggests chronic kidney disease.
• Urine Tests: The albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) detects small amounts of albumin in urine. Protein leakage may be an early sign of kidney disease
• Imaging Tests: A kidney ultrasound provides a clear picture of kidney size, shape, and structural abnormalities, such as cysts, stones, or blockages.

What Can Be Done to Maintain Kidney Health?

Keeping the kidneys healthy is essential for overall well-being. Several lifestyle changes and preventive measures can help protect kidney function and reduce the risk of kidney disease.

Stay Hydrated:

Drinking enough water helps the kidneys flush out toxins and maintain proper function. Dehydration can strain the kidneys and increase the risk of kidney stones. Aim for an adequate daily intake of fluids, adjusting based on climate, activity level, and health conditions.

Follow a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports kidney health. Reducing salt intake helps prevent high blood pressure, a major risk factor for kidney disease. Processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats should be limited to avoid unnecessary strain on the kidneys.

Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar Levels

High blood pressure and diabetes are leading causes of kidney disease. Keeping blood pressure within a healthy range and managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication can help protect the kidneys from damage.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight, improve heart health, and regulate blood pressure, all of which benefit kidney function. Moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can be incorporated into daily routines.

Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Smoking reduces blood flow to the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney disease. Excessive alcohol intake can raise blood pressure and contribute to kidney damage. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can help maintain kidney function.

Limit Overuse of Painkillers and Other Medications

Frequent use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain medications can harm the kidneys over time. Consulting a doctor before long-term use of painkillers or supplements is important, especially for those with existing kidney concerns.

Get Regular Kidney Health Screenings

People with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or other risk factors should have routine kidney function tests. Early detection allows for timely intervention and better management of kidney health.

How Can You Help Spread Awareness?

A call for action: we call on all healthcare workers to check the kidney health of their patients at risk of kidney disease and empower people at risk to seek kidney health checks.  

• Raising awareness about kidney health can encourage early detection and preventive care. Small efforts at an individual level can make a meaningful difference.
• Encourage testing – Remind family and friends to get regular kidney health check-ups, especially if they have risk factors like diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Share reliable information – Post accurate facts on social media or discuss them in daily conversations to help others understand kidney disease and its risks.
• Join awareness events – Participate in World Kidney Day activities, community health talks, or hospital-led campaigns to spread the message.
• Promote healthy habits – Encourage simple lifestyle changes, such as drinking enough water, reducing salt intake, and staying active, to support kidney function.
• Support at-risk individuals – Help those with kidney disease or related conditions access proper medical advice and testing by guiding them to healthcare providers.