Mangaluru: On the occasion of World Kidney Day, KMC Hospital Mangaluru highlighted the importance of early detection and preventive care in addressing kidney diseases, noting that one in ten people globally live with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), many of whom remain unaware of the condition in its early stages.

The hospital’s Department of Nephrology organised an awareness initiative to emphasise the role of screening, lifestyle changes, and timely treatment in reducing the burden of kidney disease. Specialists also pointed out that diabetes and hypertension continue to be the leading causes of kidney failure worldwide.

Importance of early detection

Dr Ashok Bhat, Senior Consultant in Nephrology, said World Kidney Day serves as an important reminder for individuals to prioritise kidney health and undergo routine screening.

He explained that kidney disease often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only in advanced stages.

“Many patients remain unaware of kidney disease in the early stages because symptoms usually appear when the condition has already progressed. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, staying hydrated, and undergoing routine blood and urine tests can significantly reduce the risk,” he said.

Dr Bhat also encouraged individuals to consult a nephrologist for personalised medical advice based on their health conditions.

Dialysis not always inevitable

Speaking on treatment options, Dr Sushanth Kumar, Senior Consultant in Nephrology, said not all kidney diseases lead to dialysis.

“Dialysis generally begins in Stage 5 CKD or when severe symptoms and complications arise. Kidney transplantation remains the most effective treatment for kidney failure when compared with long-term dialysis,” he explained.

Dr Kumar noted that successful transplants depend on the availability of living or deceased donors. In cases involving deceased donors, organ allocation is supported by government initiatives such as Jeeva Sarthakathe.

For living donor transplants, the hospital follows strict approval and legal procedures through its internal hospital authority committee in accordance with the organ transplantation regulations in India.

Comprehensive nephrology services

Dr Mayoor Prabhu, Head of the Department of Nephrology, highlighted the hospital’s advanced facilities and specialised kidney care services.

“At KMC Hospital Mangaluru, we have established comprehensive nephrology services that include advanced dialysis support, an experienced transplant team, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches supported by modern diagnostic facilities,” he said.

He added that the hospital operates one of the largest dialysis units in Dakshina Kannada, supported by a large team of doctors and allied healthcare professionals providing 24/7 services throughout the year.

The nephrology department also offers patient-centric services such as bedside dialysis treatments, dialysis support in intensive care units (ICUs), and specialised dialysis care for patients with HIV and Hepatitis B (HBsAg) while maintaining strict infection control protocols.

Patient-focused kidney care

Additional facilities include high-efficiency HDF dialysis units and dedicated transport services for bedridden patients who require regular dialysis treatment.

Through these initiatives, the hospital aims to strengthen awareness about kidney health while expanding access to advanced treatment options for patients across the region.

The hospital reiterated its commitment to promoting early detection, preventive healthcare, and comprehensive nephrology services to reduce the growing burden of kidney diseases.