Early screening key to prevent kidney disease in women

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects approximately 1 in 10 people worldwide. Kidney diseases often progress silently. Many individuals remain unaware of declining kidney function until advanced stages. In developing countries, late presentation, limited screening, and restricted access to renal replacement therapy significantly increase morbidity and mortality.

Major risk factors include Diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, obesity, family history of kidney disease, etc.

As today (8 March) is International Women's Day, here I want to highlight unique kidney issues in women.

Women and kidney disease: A unique intersection

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions of women worldwide. Yet awareness remains low. Certain conditions disproportionately affect women: Pregnancy-related complications such as preeclampsia can increase the long-term risk of kidney disease; Autoimmune disorders like lupus (which is more common in women) are significant contributors to kidney damage; Urinary tract infections, more frequent in women, can lead to recurrent kidney problems if untreated; Socioeconomic barriers often delay diagnosis and treatment.

Pregnancy and kidney health are important and under-recognised areas

Kidney disease during pregnancy poses risks to both mother and baby. Early screening for hypertension, proteinuria, and diabetes can significantly reduce complications. Equally important is post-pregnancy follow-up for women who experience preeclampsia, as they remain at higher risk of chronic kidney disease later in life.

In many parts of the world, women are less likely to receive timely dialysis or kidney transplantation compared to men, despite often being more likely to donate a kidney to a family member. This silent disparity deserves urgent attention.

Bridging the gap: What needs to change?

Increased awareness about kidney disease in women; Early screening programs, especially during and after pregnancy; Improved access to dialysis and transplantation; Research focused on sex-specific differences in kidney disease; Encouraging women to prioritise their own health.

The importance of early detection

Early diagnosis can prevent or delay progression to kidney failure. Simple and cost-effective tests which can detect kidney disease at a very early stage include Blood pressure measurement, serum creatinine and estimated GFR; Urine routine examination (proteinuria detection). High-risk individuals should undergo regular screening.

Prevention is better than cure

Kidney disease is often preventable. Key preventive measures include maintaining optimal blood sugar and blood pressure control, reducing salt intake, staying physically active, avoiding unnecessary use of NSAIDs, drinking adequate water, and regular health checkups.

Dr Fahmida Begum, is a Senior Consultant, Department of Nephrology, Evercare Hospital Dhaka