World Kidney Day 2024- History, Theme, Significance

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World Kidney Day

World Kidney Day refers to a global healthcare event that is celebrated every year on 14 March. This day aims to raise awareness about the difficulties faced by people suffering from kidney diseases, leading to a more inclusive world for all. This day is celebrated with great zeal in different countries and involves medical campaigns such as screening of all types of kidney diseases, promotion of preventive tips, and advocacy of kidney transplantation as one of the best possible options for the patient after kidney failure. Let’s dig more about this day.

Name of the dayWorld Kidney Day
Observed onMarch 12
Reason To raise awareness about kidney health and early preventive measures.
Theme 2024Kidney Health for All

History of World Kidney Day

  • World Kidney Day is an initiative launched by the International Federation of Kidney Foundation and the International Society of Nephrology.
  • It has been celebrated every year on 14 March ever since its inception in the year 2006.
  • The primary objective of establishing this day is to promote the importance of healthy kidneys in our overall good health and development. 

Also Read: Organ Donation Day: Date, Theme, Importance, and More

What is the Theme of World Kidney Day 2024?

Every year, the Joint Steering Committee of World Kidney Day decides on a theme to plan and start campaigns related to preventing kidney diseases. The theme for 2024 is, “Kidney Health for All – Advancing equitable access to care and optimal medication practice”. 

Year Theme 
2022 Kidney Health for All – Bridge the knowledge gap to better kidney care
2021Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere – Living Well with Kidney Disease
2020Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere – from Prevention to Detection and Equitable Access to Care
2019Kidney Health for Everyone, Everywhere
2018Kidneys & Women’s Health. Include, Value, and Empower
2017Kidney Disease & Obesity – Healthy Lifestyle for Healthy Kidneys

What is the Importance of World Kidney Day? 

World Kidney Day is important for several reasons. Some of these reasons are listed below:

  • Chronic kidney disease is a progressive illness that affects at least 10% of the world’s population. The disease is more common among the elderly and diabetic patients and places a financial burden on people from low and middle-income countries.
  • In India, 800 people of 10 lakh people suffer from chronic kidney disease. Among them, 150-200 people suffer from end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The main cause is diabetic nephropathy. 
  • This epidemic among Indians has resulted in diabetes load, hypertension, and an aging population. As a result, kidney disease awareness can help.
  • The day also brings attention to national, and local authorities, and other stakeholders to work toward prevention of the kidney disease.

Also Read: Prevention of Blindness Week

Kidney Disease – Signs and Problems 

Kidney disease causes several problems for an individual. Below are the signs that an individual suffers from kidney disease. World Kidney Day draws attention to these signs and problems.

Signs of Kidney Disease Problems caused by kidney disease 
Blood in the urine (pink or dark urine color)High blood pressure (BP)
Painful or difficult urinationRisk of stroke and heart attack
Increasing need to urinate Weak bones
Increased thirst Heart disease
Foamy urine Kidney failure 
Swollen hands, face, feet, abdomen, anklesNerve damage (neuropathy)
Puffy eyesPut the life at risk
Fatigue or weaknessAnemia or low red blood cell count

Life-Saving Test for Kidney Diseases 

World Kidney Day is also about spreading awareness about kidney tests that when conducted can save the life of a person. Below are the main Kidney tests out there.

Kidney TestDescription
BP test or the blood pressure testA normal person’s BP test score should be 140/90. For chronic kidney disease, a score under 130 is counted as better.
Urine test or protein in the urine The presence of albumin and other proteins in the urine is a sign of a damaged kidney. A good score should be under 30 mg.
Kidney Function Test (KFT)The test examines how smoothly the kidneys can filter blood. Scoring under 90 is considered a sign of healthy kidneys. Scoring under 60 for 3 months is a sign of kidney problems.

Must Read: All About Dialysis Technician Course

Chronic Kidney Disease Prevention Tips 

World Kidney Day makes us aware of the importance of taking care of our kidneys. Hence, we have listed a few effective tips that anyone can follow to take care of their kidneys.

  • Have a balanced diet and make healthy food choices 
  • Make physical activity a part of your lifestyle and maintain a healthy body weight 
  • Maintain ideal blood pressure levels and manage blood sugar levels
  • Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake 
  • Drink enough water and get enough sleep
  • Avoid regular intake of steroids 
world kidney day

FAQs

Q.1. When is World Kidney Day celebrated?

Ans: Every 2nd Thursday in the month of March World Kidney Day is celebrated. This year it is celebrated on 9th March.

Q.2. When did World Kidney Day start?

Ans: World Kidney Day was started to be celebrated in the year 2006.

Q.3. How do we celebrate World Kidney Day?

Ans: World Kidney Day can be celebrated by organizing events that include cycling, walking, jogging, flash mobs, or dancing.

For more information about such informative articles, check the trending events page of Leverage Edu.

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