Less Than 5% of Kidney Failure Patients Get ‘Life-Saving’ Intervention Like Kidney Transplant

Kidney failure is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of patients receive the life-saving intervention they need to survive - a kidney transplant. Recent studies show that less than 5% of kidney failure patients receive this life-changing procedure, leaving many to suffer through the gruelling dialysis process or face an uncertain future.?

In this article, we'll explore the reasons behind this alarming statistic and explore what can be done to increase access to kidney transplants for those in need.?

What does the Recent Study say??

Some studies say that most CKD patients pass away too soon due to a lack of access to dialysis and kidney transplantation. Numerous comorbidities can reduce the life expectancy of patients who are unfortunate victims of kidney failure. They can live longer with early identification, efficient dialysis, and organ transplantation.

It has been noted that the availability of dialysis is a major barrier to preventing CKD-related mortality. Even though the National Dialysis Programme has increased access to dialysis in many regions of the country, many Indians living in rural and isolated portions of our nation continue to lack access to medical intervention.

The best course of kidney failure treatment is kidney transplantation. The patient will initially remain on dialysis, then undergo transplantation when the kidney deterioration grows towards total kidney failure. The patient's life can return to normal after a successful transplant, but they will need to take medication for the rest of their lives.

However, the ground reality for transplants is still terrible. Only 8,000 to 10,000 of the 2 lakh patients in India who need kidney transplants each year actually receive one. The fact that the sale and exchange of organs are illegal in our nation and are penalised by law is one of the key reasons behind this. Kidney donation is only permitted among blood relatives, such as parents, siblings, children, and spouses.

How Does Kidney Fail?

When the kidneys stop functioning correctly, waste and fluids can build up in the body, leading to serious health complications.

Kidney failure can occur for various reasons, including chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure, infections, autoimmune disorders, kidney stones, and genetic conditions. In some cases, kidney failure can also be the result of medication or drug use, toxins, or trauma.

There are two types of kidney failure: acute and chronic. Acute kidney failure occurs suddenly and can be caused by severe dehydration, blood loss, or a sudden drop in blood flow to the kidneys. Chronic kidney failure, however, develops gradually over time, often due to long-term health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.

How to Take Care of Your Kidney Health??

1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and fluids.
2. Maintain a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and saturated fats.
3. Control your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes, as high blood sugar can damage your kidneys over time.
4. Manage your blood pressure through lifestyle changes or medication, as high blood pressure can also cause kidney damage.
5. Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight and improve overall health.
6. Quit smoking, as it can cause kidney damage and worsen existing kidney problems.
7. Avoid excessive use of over-the-counter pain relievers, as they can damage your kidneys if taken in large amounts or over a long period.
8. Get regular check-ups with your doctor and have your kidney function tested if you have risk factors for kidney disease.

If you still want to know more about this topic and kidney damage treatment, PSRI Hospital has an expert team of doctors who can help you. Get in touch with the experts of PSRI Hospital today to know more.?