Every year, 7th April marks World Health Day, a reminder for individuals and communities to prioritize their health. This year’s theme urges us to rethink our approach to well-being—not just treating illness but preventing it before it begins. One of the most powerful tools in this direction is preventive health checkups.
Unfortunately, in India, many diseases go undetected until they reach a critical stage. This silent progression turns manageable conditions into life-threatening illnesses, especially in the case of kidney disease.
The Danger of Undiagnosed Illnesses
In our country, millions of people live with chronic conditions without knowing it. Diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease often show no early symptoms, yet they silently damage organs over time
Why this happens:
- Low awareness of preventive care
- Irregular or no routine health checkups
- Financial or geographical barriers to healthcare access
- Cultural stigma or fear around diagnosis
The result? Patients often seek care only when the disease has advanced, making treatment more complex and costly.
Kidney Disease: A Prime Example of Missed Detection
Kidney disease is among the fastest-growing non-communicable diseases in India. According to the Indian Society of Nephrology:
- 1 in 7 Indians may suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Over 60% of these cases are caused by uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension
- Most patients are diagnosed at Stage 4 or 5, when kidneys are already severely damaged
Had these patients undergone annual kidney function tests (KFT) or routine blood pressure checks, many could have delayed or completely avoided dialysis or kidney failure.
This World Health Day, let’s not wait for symptoms to appear. Early detection can prevent suffering and save lives. Especially in underserved communities, health awareness camps and screenings can bring life-saving interventions within reach.
Steps we must take:
- Encourage routine health checkups, especially for those above 30
- Educate communities on common silent killers like CKD
- Partner with healthcare providers for affordable screening camps
- Promote digital tools for tracking health records and reminders
Conclusion
On this World Health Day, let’s pledge to move from reactive care to preventive care. A simple test today could save a life tomorrow. In the battle for a healthier India, early detection is our strongest weapon.
Author: Dr. Deepak Agarwal
VP- Clinical
DCDC Kidney Care