CHENNAI: World Kidney Day was just recently observed on the second Thursday of March as a part of global initiative to raise awareness about kidney health and preventing kidney diseases by understanding the risk factors.
Nephrologist Dr.Hema Aravind, who is currently working in Germany with an affiliation to Dr.Kamakshi Memorial Hospital in Chennai, has stressed that it is essential to educate the public about early warning signs, particularly hematuria (blood in urine) which is a silent indicator of kidney problems because the burden of kidney-related ailments in India is growing rapidly.
“Hematuria or blood in the urine is a symptom that requires immediate medical attention. It is not a disease in itself, but a symptom. It can be microscopic which means only detectable under a microscope or visible to the naked eye. The common causes of blood in urine are kidney stones, urinary tract infections, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), bladder or kidney cancer etc,” she explained in her awareness message shared to ‘Lotus Times’ media on March 18th 2025.
WHAT ARE THE PREVENTIVE MEASURES?
Diabetes and hypertension are two leading causes of kidney disease in India and hence Dr.Hema Aravind had listed out a few essential tips as preventive measures and for kidney health. “It is essential to stay hydrated because drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and prevents kidney stones,” she emphasized.
The Germany-based nephrologist also advises to maintain a balanced healthy diet with fruits and vegetables, and go low in processed foods to reduce the risk of kidney disease. “I am also appealing to control blood sugar and blood pressure. Regular monitoring and lifestyle modification can prevent kidney damage. At the same time, we must avoid overuse of painkillers because excessive use of NSAIDs (painkillers) can harm kidney function over a period time,” nephrologist Dr.Hema Aravind has cautioned the people.
She also underlined that ‘quit smoking and limit alcohol’ are importance for kidney health since both smoking and alcohol can contribute to kidney damage and increase the risk of kidney cancer. Also, regular health check-ups will be helpful for early detection through urine tests, kidney function tests and ultrasound which help prevent severe kidney complications.
“In India, millions of people suffer from kidney problems without knowing it until it is too late. Awareness campaigns and early screening can prevent kidney disease. My most important message on World Kidney Day 2025 is that if you notice blood in urine, do not ignore it. Consult a nephrologist immediately for proper evaluation, diagnosis and timely treatment,” Dr.Hema Aravind has said. As a nephrologist, she is associated with Dialyse praxis at Paulinauer Bahnhof in Germany, Vivantes Humboldt-Klinikum, Germany and Dr.Kamakshi Memorial Hospital in Chennai, India.
