Can Kidney Damage Be Slowed? New Treatments Offer Hope | Dr. Avinash

Kidney disease is often called a silent condition because its early stages may come with few or vague symptoms. By the time noticeable symptoms appear, significant kidney damage may already have occurred. In this episode of Times Network’s Kidney Connect, Dr. Avinash, Senior Consultant Nephrologist at Noble Hospital, Pune, discusses the growing burden of kidney disease in India and why early detection and prevention are critical. The conversation explores: • Why chronic kidney disease can remain undetected for years • Why diabetes and high blood pressure are among the major causes of CKD • How sedentary lifestyles, changing diets, obesity and excessive painkiller use can increase kidney-related risks • Why serum creatinine may not rise until significant kidney damage has occurred • Why even small amounts of protein in urine should not be ignored • How obesity, uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension and excessive salt intake can put stress on the kidneys • Why people with diabetes, hypertension, excess weight or a family history of kidney disease should consider regular kidney check-ups • The importance of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention • How newer medicines, including SGLT2 inhibitors and finerenone, are being used in the management of chronic kidney disease • The potential of early intervention to slow the progression of kidney damage • The benefits and limitations of AI and digital health tools in kidney care • Why information generated by AI or found online should be discussed with a doctor before taking medical action • The challenges of dialysis and transplantation accessibility in India • Government initiatives aimed at expanding dialysis access • Why prevention, physical activity, diet regulation and responsible medication use are crucial for kidney health Dr. Avinash also highlights the importance of changing the mindset of “it won't happen to me” and becoming proactive about kidney health. The interview cites studies discussed in the conversation that estimate kidney disease prevalence among Indian adults at around 13–16%, or approximately one in seven people. Watch the full conversation to understand why prevention and early detection could play a crucial role in reducing the long-term burden of kidney disease.