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Odisha's Hidden Kidney Threat: Water Fuels CKD Crisis
11 Mar
Summary
- Uncontrolled diabetes is a prime cause of kidney disease in Odisha.
- Heavy metals in drinking water contribute to approximately 15% of CKD cases.
- Eight golden rules for kidney health include diet, hydration, and regular check-ups.
Uncontrolled diabetes and heavy metals present in drinking water are major factors driving chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Odisha. Ongoing research by SCB Medical College and Hospital and Vimsar suggests diabetes is responsible for 30-40% of kidney ailments.
Further findings reveal that heavy metals in water contribute to approximately 15% of CKD cases, with 480 out of 3,200 examined patients showing traces of these metals in their urine. This highlights a critical need for safe and potable drinking water, especially in CKD-affected areas.
Nephrology experts also point to hypertension as a leading cause of CKD. They advocate for eight golden rules for kidney health: regular physical activity, a healthy diet, adequate hydration, blood glucose control, blood pressure management, avoiding smoking, appropriate medication use, and regular kidney function tests.
Attention is also growing towards CKD of unknown origin (CKDu), particularly affecting agricultural workers without traditional risk factors. Environmental factors such as contaminated water, heat stress, and occupational exposure to agrochemicals are being investigated as potential causes.
