Dhaka: Health experts have identified uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure as leading causes of kidney disease in the country, emphasizing the importance of awareness and a healthy lifestyle as key preventive measures. They opined that the impact of this disease has worsened in Bangladesh, but it can be prevented through awareness and a healthy lifestyle.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Professor Dr. Md. Shahidul Islam (Selim), former chairman of the Kidney Disease Department at BSMMU and a specialist in kidney disease and medicine, stated that the number of kidney patients in Bangladesh is steadily rising, and uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, and nephritis are major contributors to the ailment. He highlighted that despite treatment, the prevalence of these conditions continues to rise, with diabetes being the most significant cause.
Dr. Shahidul Islam explained that even if a person’s diabetes is under control, kidney problems can still develop after 5 to 10 years due to its e
ffects. He noted that ten years ago, nephritis was the leading cause, but with treatment, its impact has improved. He emphasized that kidney disease cannot be prevented unless diabetes is controlled.
He advised that understanding and addressing the underlying causes of kidney disease are crucial. If diabetes or high blood pressure is involved, they must be managed through treatment to prevent the condition from progressing to chronic kidney disease. He further explained that acute kidney patients can be normalized with treatment, whereas chronic kidney patients face ongoing challenges.
Regarding treatment options in Bangladesh, Dr. Shahidul Islam mentioned that they are limited and typically available at medical college hospitals and BSMMU. He added that treatment practices in Bangladesh align with those in the developed world, with significant research being conducted to address specific needs.
Professor Dr. Harun-ur-Rashid, founder president of the Kidney Foundation, reported that the number of diabetes
and high blood pressure cases is rising in Bangladesh. He noted that around 50 to 60 percent of patients are unaware they have diabetes, while 55 to 65 percent don’t know they have high blood pressure. Without control of these conditions, kidney disease cases will continue to rise.
Experts highlighted that about 85 crore people globally are affected by chronic kidney disease, with 3.8 crore people in Bangladesh suffering in various ways. Factors such as poverty, lack of awareness, inadequate medical care, and unhealthy lifestyles are exacerbating the problem.
About 40,000 kidney patients require dialysis annually due to this disease, which was ranked 19th in 1990 but has now reached the 7th position. The serious consequences of kidney disease lead to additional medical expenses, making it unaffordable for many, resulting in a high mortality rate among patients.
Experts stress that early identification and awareness about the prevalence, severity, and causes of kidney disease can aid in preventing it.