INVC NEWS
New Delhi,
In the last decade, there is a rise in kidney diseases related to prolonged obesity by upto 40% in tier 1 cities like Gwalior. According to clinicians, a combination of obesity and chronic kidney disease is a lethal combination, and is emerging to be a major health concern with a rapid rise in number of cases.
Fortis Hospital Vasant Kunj who has been doing regular OPD in association with Kailash Hospital noted that Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) which is a dangerous condition can lead to kidney failure is majorly seen in obese patients. While timely diagnosis can have better outcomes, but the ultimate treatment options viable is a dialysis or kidney transplant.
According to the estimates of WHO, with the current rise of obesity being observed, obesity is likely to affect over 18% of men and 21% of women worldwide. With growing body of evidences, indicates that obesity poses a potent risk for the development of chronic Kidney disease (CKD) and End-Stage renal Disease (ESRD). In comparison to people with normal weight, people with prolonged obesity or being overweight increases their chances of developing ESRD by upto 7 times.
“Obesity is the leading cause of CKD directly and indirectly. It may directly increase the metabolic syndrome causing kidney damage due to increase in its workload, or indirectly by raising T2DM, hypertension and heart diseases, affecting the kidney. In either of the cases, it is necessary to take simultaneous action, as the condition may aggravate with twice the speed if left unnoticed. During the last five years, we have observed a steady rise in the number of cases of childhood obesity. Once considered to be a myth, like adults, obese children are also equally prone and are affected by CKD. Over the years I have treated families carrying genes that cause both obesity and CKD and it is scary to know that these can be passed on to the younger generation.” Said Dr Tanmay Pandya, Sr. Consultant, Nephrology Fortis Institute of Renal Sciences and Transplant (FIRST) at Fortis FLT. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital (FHVK)
The team of doctors also emphasized on keeping the duo combination at bay through regular exercise, maintaining blood sugar levels, keeping blood pressure at optimum levels, eating healthy to keep a check on weight, maintaining healthy fluid levels in the body, avoid smoking, self medications and OTC pills. In case a person is above the age of 40 years, it is recommended to undergo regular annual health check-ups.
Though renal transplant remains the only option for patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), but those awaiting a kidney donor are usually treated with either hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis along with lifestyle modifications, exercise and proper diet. Looking at the number of patients with obesity and CKD, it is suggested that knowledge on prevention and management is also required to be disseminated in the country. Said Mr. Mangla Dembi, Facility Director, Fortis Flt. Lt. Rajan Dhall Hospital, Vasant Kunj (FHVK)
