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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 day | World Kidney Day |
| Observed on | March 12 |
| Reason | To raise awareness about kidney health and early preventive measures. |
| Theme 2024 | Kidney Health for All |
Table of Contents
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 |
| 2021 | Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere – Living Well with Kidney Disease |
| 2020 | Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere – from Prevention to Detection and Equitable Access to Care |
| 2019 | Kidney Health for Everyone, Everywhere |
| 2018 | Kidneys & Women’s Health. Include, Value, and Empower |
| 2017 | Kidney 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 urination | Risk of stroke and heart attack |
| Increasing need to urinate | Weak bones |
| Increased thirst | Heart disease |
| Foamy urine | Kidney failure |
| Swollen hands, face, feet, abdomen, ankles | Nerve damage (neuropathy) |
| Puffy eyes | Put the life at risk |
| Fatigue or weakness | Anemia 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 Test | Description |
| BP test or the blood pressure test | A 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. |
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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
FAQs
Ans: Every 2nd Thursday in the month of March World Kidney Day is celebrated. This year it is celebrated on 9th March.
Ans: World Kidney Day was started to be celebrated in the year 2006.
Ans: World Kidney Day can be celebrated by organizing events that include cycling, walking, jogging, flash mobs, or dancing.
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