Two simple tests can detect kidney ailment early, say experts

By Admin

12 Mar, 2026

Kidney disease is often called a “silent health threat” because many people do not realize they have it until it reaches an advanced stage. Health experts say that two simple medical tests can help detect kidney problems early and prevent serious complications.

During a webinar on Kidney Care: Awareness and Prevention, medical specialists highlighted how early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of severe kidney damage.

Importance of Early Detection

According to Dr. Sakthi Selvakumar, Consultant Nephrologist at Kauvery Hospital Cantonment in Tiruchi, kidney diseases can often go unnoticed for years.

He explained that two basic tests can help detect kidney issues early:

1. Blood Test (Creatinine Test)
   This test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. Creatinine is a waste product filtered by the kidneys, and high levels may indicate that the kidneys are not functioning properly.
   
   

2. Urine Test (Protein Test)
   This test checks for protein leakage in urine. The presence of protein can be an early sign that the kidneys are damaged.
   
   

These tests are simple, affordable, and widely available, making them effective tools for routine health screening.

A Silent Disease Affecting Millions

Dr. Selvakumar revealed an alarming statistic:

One out of every 10 people worldwide may have chronic kidney disease (CKD), and nearly 90% of them are unaware of it.

One major reason for this lack of awareness is that kidney disease often shows no symptoms in its early stages. A person can lose up to 90% of kidney function before experiencing noticeable symptoms, which often leads to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Identifying Personal Risk Factors

Experts emphasized that individuals should be aware of their personal health risks. Some common risk factors include:

• Diabetes
  
  

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
  
  

• Family history of kidney disease
  
  

• Unhealthy lifestyle habits
  
  

People with these risk factors should undergo regular testing to detect any early signs of kidney damage.

Lifestyle Changes to Protect Kidney Health

Doctors also stressed the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of kidney disease.

Recommended habits include:

• Eating home-cooked meals instead of processed food
  
  

• Engaging in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week
  
  

• Going for regular medical check-ups
  
  

• Avoiding unnecessary supplements and medications without medical advice
  
  

A balanced diet and consistent exercise can significantly improve overall kidney health.

Understanding the Five Stages of Kidney Disease

Dr. K. Abirami, Senior Consultant and Head of Nephrology at Kauvery Hospital, Salem, explained that chronic kidney disease progresses through five stages.

She noted that with timely treatment and lifestyle changes, the progression of the disease can be slowed during Stages 1 to 4.

In the final stage, known as renal failure, patients may require haemodialysis. With proper care, diet, and management of conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, dialysis can help patients live for years or even decades.

The Organ Donation Gap

Dr. Abirami also highlighted the shortage of donor kidneys for transplantation.

In 2024, Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of deceased-donor kidney transplants in India with 860 procedures, followed by:

• Telangana – 587
  
  

• Karnataka – 483
  
  

• Maharashtra – 466
  
  

• Gujarat – 367
  
  

Despite these numbers, patients still face long waiting periods of three to five years for a donor kidney.

She noted that Tamil Nadu reports around 18,600 fatal accidents each year, and if more people pledged their organs, one donor could potentially save or improve the lives of at least 12 patients waiting for transplants.

Common Kidney Diseases and Their Symptoms

During the webinar, Dr. Sivakumar D., Senior Consultant Nephrologist at Kauvery Hospital, Vadapalani, spoke about eight common kidney diseases, their symptoms, and treatment approaches.

He emphasized that people should focus on balanced diets and home-cooked food rather than relying heavily on supplements, which may not always be beneficial.

Raising Awareness on World Kidney Day

The webinar was jointly organized by Kauvery Hospital and The Hindu to mark World Kidney Day, observed on March 12. The event aimed to spread awareness about early detection, prevention, and treatment of kidney diseases.

Experts concluded that simple tests, timely diagnosis, and healthy lifestyle choices can play a critical role in preventing kidney disease from becoming life-threatening.