Advancing Nephropathology — The Role Of Modern Diagnostics In Chronic Kidney Disease Management
(Dr. Abha Sabhikhi)
Chronic kidney disease is a major public health issue in India, leading to 45% deaths due to kidney failure between 2018 and 2022, reflecting growing morbidity and mortality. A primary contributor to this issue is the escalating prevalence of diabetes. Around 77 million individuals in India were living with diabetes as of 2019. This number is projected to rise to over 134 million by 2045. This surge positions India as the "Diabetes Capital of the World," with diabetes being a leading risk factor for CKD.
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Early Diagnosis: Significance For Morbidity Reduction
Early CKD detection is pivotal in slowing disease progression and reducing healthcare costs. Immediate nephrology recommendation after an early diagnosis lets you receive pre-dialysis learning and preventative treatments, which can delay or even stop the development to end-stage renal disease which helps in decreasing overall mortality as well as morbidity.
Nephropathology: Role Of Specialised Centres
Nephropathology involves a detailed study of kidney samples using different types of microscopes to correctly identify diseases like when a protein builds up and damages the kidneys (IgA nephropathy) and when the immune system attacks and inflames the kidneys (lupus nephritis).
Specialised centres with standardised tissue handling protocols are essential for detecting ultrastructural changes like the thinning or flattening of special kidney cells (podocyte effacement), guiding precise, targeted therapies. However, many Indian laboratories still diverge from best-practise standards, underscoring the need for infrastructure upgrades and focused training programmes.
Lifestyle-Related Nephrotoxicity And Indigenous Medicines:
The pursuit of a sculpted physique has led many young adults across India to embrace intense fitness routines. However, alongside disciplined training, there is a very disturbing trend of increased usage of anabolic steroids and uncontrolled protein supplements that is going on. These substances are often considered shortcuts for faster muscle gain, which can silently but surely harm the kidneys.
Continued steroid misuse can result in focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) which is a condition where parts of the Kidney filtration systems are affected. This damage can lead to persistent protein leakage in urine, swelling, and eventual kidney failure if untreated. Excessive intake of high-protein powders, especially those laced with hidden hormones or contaminated compounds, can also overwork the kidneys, especially in people with undiagnosed early-stage CKD.
Add to this the casual use of pre-workouts, creatine stacks, and “fat burners,” and it becomes clear: what starts as a fitness goal can unintentionally escalate into a medical crisis. Many of these drugs are widely available online or in local gyms, with no regulation or medical supervision. As the fitness culture expands so does awareness. Kidneys do not show symptoms until severe damage has been done. Regular health screenings and educated decisions can help avert major or permanent outcomes.
Dr. Abha Sabhikhi is Advisor And mentor Technical COE & Academics at Histopathology, Agilus Diagnostics
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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