Aiming towards International Universal health coverage by 2030: Focusing on Kidney Health

HYDERABAD: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has been identified as the eighth highest cause of death and the tenth main cause of disability worldwide, accounting for more than 16 to 32 healthy years of life lost each year, with a global prevalence ranging from 8 percent to 10 percent.

Global health systems face challenges in financing, training, building human resources, and strengthening information systems to meet population needs for kidney care.

CKD, despite being a global concern, disproportionately impacts individuals from lower-middle-income countries. CKD prevalence in India has reached epidemic proportions, with population-based studies reporting a 4-20 percent prevalence.

The WHO's 2023 ISN-GKHA report indicated that CKD affects approximately 850 million people globally, with disadvantaged populations at higher risk.

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has gained popularity among global health advocates, trans-national funding agencies, policymakers, and healthcare advocacy groups in recent years. The ambitious goal of achieving International Universal Health Coverage by 2030 is a challenge in itself but at the same time achievable.

The vision emphasized the importance of focusing on kidney health, demonstrating dedication to achieving better health for all.

It necessitates robust healthcare systems that prioritise preventive measures and equal access to treatment for all. Addressing kidney health, under this vision, emerges as a critical component in achieving the larger goal of Universal Health Coverage.

Since Kidney disease is silently progressive it would be prudent for health systems to design a coherent strategy to promote awareness about kidney disease, develop and disseminate 'high risk' screening programs, improving access, availability of low cost technology and drugs and interventions to slow progression of Kidney disease are key.

The delivery of comprehensive kidney healthcare services is hampered by a lack of resources, inadequate infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors, particularly in low and middle-income countries.

Hence, to achieve Universal Health Coverage by 2030 the below steps need to be followed

Preventive Measures: Lifestyle changes that are through education and awareness campaigns, regular screenings, and early detection are critical in preventing the onset and progression of CKD.

Accessible Care: Integrating kidney health services into primary care settings strengthens healthcare systems by ensuring early diagnosis and treatment initiation, since the interventions are clearly known.

Innovative Technologies: Embracing technological advancements such as telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics can help to bridge geographical gaps and improve healthcare access, particularly in remote areas.

Collaborative Efforts: International partnerships, knowledge sharing, and collaborations between governments, healthcare organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are critical in driving sustainable solutions and sharing best practices worldwide.

As a result, improving healthcare accessibility, particularly in kidney health issues, the above steps serve as a guiding light on the path to a healthier, more equitable world. With collaborative efforts and steadfast commitment, we can achieve UHC and comprehensive kidney health for all by 2030.

With inputs from Dr. Suresh Sankar, NephroPlus