I. Overview
World Kidney Day is a worldwide awareness campaign led jointly by the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF) – World Kidney Alliance (WKA). The day promotes kidney health and help reduce the global impact of kidney disease. The day is marked every year on the second thursday of March.
II. Significance of the Theme
The theme “Kidney Health for All: Caring for People, Protecting the Planet” highlights that kidney health is inseparable from equity and environmental sustainability. It emphasizes early detection, fair access to care, and climate-responsible treatment, reminding us that protecting kidneys also means protecting people, communities, and the planet for the future.
III. Why Kidney Diseases Are Increasing Globally?
Kidney diseases are rising due to a combination of increasing diabetes and hypertension, population aging, and widespread late detection, as early kidney damage often shows no symptoms. Environmental exposures such as pollution, pesticides, unsafe water, recurrent infections, heat stress, and the overuse of nephrotoxic drugs further contribute to kidney injury. Weak screening systems and limited access to timely, affordable care allow preventable kidney disease to progress to advanced stages.
IV. Quick Facts about Kidney Health
- An estimated 850 million people worldwide have some form of kidney disease.
- CKD affects about 1 in 10 adults globally.
- CKD contributes to millions of deaths annually and is a leading cause of premature mortality.
- NMany people with CKD remain undiagnosed due to lack of early symptoms, meaning disease often progresses before detection.
- Diabetes and high blood pressure are major risk factors for kidney disease and failure.
- In 2023, nearly 788 million adults across the world were living with kidney disease, a sharp rise from about 378 million in 1990.
- The problem was most widespread in North Africa and the Middle East, where almost one in five adults were affected.
V. A Brief History of WKD
2006: It was launched as a joint initiative by the ISN and the IFKF-WKA. It was initially celebrated in 66 countries.
2007: First official observance of World Kidney Day.
2015: Logo for Kidney Day was launched.
2017: ISN launched the first “Global Kidney Health Atlas”, documenting worldwide gaps in kidney care, workforce, and financing, and calling for policy action.
2026: This year will mark the “20th anniversary of World Kidney Day”
VI. How to Observe WKD?
- Raise Awareness – Educate communities about kidney health and risk factors
- Screening: Promote early detection with blood and urine tests.
- Advocacy: Support policies for accessible and affordable kidney care.
- Healthy Living: Encourage nutrition, hydration, exercise, and control of diabetes and hypertension.
- Community Engagement: Join or organize outreach events, seminars, and screenings.
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