Mankind Pharma, in collaboration with healthcare experts, has called for greater awareness around kidney health, highlighting the growing burden of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), which affects nearly 10 percent of the global population and often remains undiagnosed until advanced stages.

Kidneys play a critical role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste, regulating fluid balance, controlling blood pressure and supporting several metabolic functions in the body. However, medical experts warn that kidney disease frequently develops without noticeable symptoms, allowing individuals to lose up to 90 percent of kidney function before the condition is detected.

As part of its initiative for World Kidney Day, the company is conducting awareness campaigns focused on early detection and preventive healthcare. The initiative includes educational outreach and expert-led discussions encouraging people to monitor important health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar levels and kidney function through routine diagnostic tests.

India is facing a significant kidney health challenge, with global health studies estimating that around 138 million people in the country are living with chronic kidney disease. Research further indicates that approximately 13–17 percent of adults in India may have some stage of kidney disease, with many cases remaining undiagnosed until the condition has progressed considerably.

The treatment gap is also substantial. Experts estimate that India requires nearly 200,000 kidney transplants annually, yet only around 13,500 transplants are performed each year, fulfilling less than six percent of the total demand. A low organ donation rate, less than one donor per million population, continues to limit the availability of transplant procedures compared to several developed countries.

The rising prevalence of diabetes and hypertension remains a major contributor to the increasing incidence of kidney disease in India. Lifestyle factors such as high salt consumption, unhealthy dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles further elevate the risk.

According to Dr Anant Kumar, Chairman – Urology, Renal Transplant and Robotics at Max Super Speciality Hospital Saket, chronic kidney disease often progresses silently and is typically detected only in advanced stages. He emphasised that individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity or a family history of kidney disease should undergo routine screening through tests such as blood creatinine, urine analysis and blood pressure monitoring.

Arjun Juneja, Chief Operating Officer at Mankind Pharma, said that awareness initiatives such as World Kidney Day play an important role in promoting early diagnosis and prevention. He noted that encouraging regular health check-ups and healthier lifestyle choices can help individuals take proactive steps toward protecting their long-term kidney health.

As part of the awareness campaign, the company is also promoting preventive practices such as maintaining physical activity, managing blood sugar levels, monitoring blood pressure, following a balanced diet with controlled salt intake, staying well hydrated and avoiding the excessive use of painkillers. Experts also recommend routine kidney function tests for individuals at higher risk.