Coupled with an ageing population the number of people suffering from end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) is estimated to be 1.4 million. In a Bulletin of the World Health Organization issue dated March 3, Sarah White and colleagues estimate that the incidence of ESKD require 1.4 million to undergo renal replacement therapy (RRT). This number is set to grow alarmingly at a rate of 8 percent annually.

The article further states that low and middle-income countries are the hardest hit by kidney disease as they have no recourses to provide adequate care in the form of kidney transplantation.

In such a scenario, preventing chronic kidney disease has to be the way forward. The main aim must be to prevent heart disease and diabetes as these diseases take a heavy toll on the kidneys. Ironically kidney disease is very treatable if diagnosed at an early stage.

Routine check up only involves measuring creatinine values, which is not an accurate reflection of kidney function. By the time creatinine levels rise in the body kidneys will have suffered 50 percent damage. That is why it is vital to include kidney screening in routine check-up especially if complication conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes are present.

So the next time you time up for your annual physical, ask your doctor to screen your kidneys as well. After all prevention IS better than cure!