When we talk about impaired kidney function (IKF) or chronic kidney disease (CKD), we mostly consider it a disease of the adults and aging population, but when we look at the results of a study carried out by the Ministry of Health in India, impaired kidney function is no longer restricted to adults. In India, CKD prevails among children and adolescents too.

It means…

Chronic Kidney Disease in India is a major cause for concern not only for adults and the aging population but also for children, teenagers, and adolescents.

Prevalence of chronic kidney disease in children

CNNS – The first-of-its-kind study documented the prevalence of impaired kidney function (IKF) among children and adolescents in India.

What is the significance of this study?

Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease in children and adolescents is a complex and dynamic disease with unique factors that differentiate this population from adults. CKD diagnosis in children and adolescents carries special importance because it helps in developing a national strategy for addressing CKD in the young population and setting goals for attaining optimal kidney health in the pediatric population.

The comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS)

The comprehensive National Nutrition Survey (CNNS) based on serum creatinine levels and estimated eGFR values indicated the prevalence of impaired kidney function (IKF) among children and adolescents (age 5 – 19 years) in India.

The study was carried out by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India across 30 states.

The Results of this study

  • High prevalence of impaired kidney function in children and adolescents.
  • The estimated IKF prevalence is around 5%
  • The higher likelihood of having IKF in children and adolescents is associated with stunting.
  • The high prevalence of CKD is in rural populations and low socioeconomic groups.
  • The highest prevalence of impaired kidney function was observed in Andhra Pradesh, followed by Telangana and West Bengal, while the prevalence was lowest in Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, and Kerala.

Bottom Line

The results of this comprehensive study strongly suggest that kidney disease can affect anyone irrespective of age. Therefore, parents, caretakers, and guardians must take prompt action, if they suspect that their children or teenagers are at risk of developing impaired kidney function and chronic kidney disease.

Their awareness and timely action can prevent future complications.

The approach is simple: consult a nephrologist for kidney disease screening that involves simple urine and blood tests to check the kidneys’ health.

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