Alarming rise in number of kidney patients

It is a matter of concern that one in every seven persons in Bangladesh is suffering from kidney diseases. Every year, 40,000 people die in the country from kidney-related diseases. This number is increasing with every passing year.

Healthcare professionals and scientists have speculated that the situation will turn worse over the next decade if prevention measures are not taken and awareness is not generated among common people about it.

Many kidney patients depend on regular dialysis. This is a very costly treatment that not all can afford. Lack of awareness is one of the main reasons for the growing number of kidney patients. Also, the country does not have adequate number of trained medical staff and specialists required for kidney diseases and dialysis. Also, the country does not have enough dialysis machines for the growing number of kidney patients.

Diabetes needs to be prevented to save the kidneys and ensure good health. Poor eating habits, obesity, smoking and drinking alcohol are associated with kidney diseases. Adulterated food and using harmful chemicals in food items should also be blamed. Many young people drink carbonated drinks and energy drinks. These are also very harmful.

People need to do some basic diagnostic tests including creatinine levels and others to check the condition of their kidneys and overall health every year.

Imran Aziz

Niketon, Dhaka