World Kidney Day 2025 is set to take center stage on March 13, highlighting the growing crisis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) not only globally but particularly within Thailand. The theme for this year, set by the International Society of Nephrology, encourages individuals to "Check Your Kidneys, Add Heart, Protect Your Kidneys." Amidst alarming statistics, the need for increased awareness and screening has never been clearer.
The increase of kidney disease patients is staggering. According to recent data from the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand has seen the number of kidney disease patients rise to approximately 1.12 million, with 500,000 of these individuals classified under stages three to five of CKD. Specifically, stage four cases alone number over 120,000, and the most severe stage five accounts for around 75,000 patients. This growing epidemic not only reflects health challenges but also points toward significant economic consequences, with the healthcare system reportedly burdened with costs exceeding 1.6 trillion baht annually due to CKD-related treatments.
Dr. Panumas Yanavetsakul, the Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, emphasizes the importance of screening, especially for at-risk populations, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and the elderly. He noted, "On World Kidney Day, we aim to educate the public about the importance of early detection and management of kidney health." The targeted awareness campaigns aim to reduce the risk of developing severe kidney damage by encouraging regular check-ups.
Dr. Direk Kamphan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Disease Control, added "Chronic kidney disease is often asymptomatic during its early stages. People may only learn of their condition when they are already facing severe complications, highlighting the importance of regular screenings." He reiterated the need for public education about the signs and risk factors associated with CKD.
Additional statistics detail the treatment realities faced by kidney disease patients. For the year 2022, Thailand reported 24,439 kidney transplants alongside 86,325 patients undergoing dialysis. Such figures paint a concerning picture of healthcare needs, with demand for services exceeding the current capabilities of the health system.
Dr. Kritsada Hanbanjerod, Director of the Non-Communicable Diseases Division, stresses the risk factors beyond diabetes and high blood pressure, citing obesity, hyperlipidemia, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and other genetic predispositions as significant contributors to CKD. Disturbingly, behaviors such as excessive pain medication use, improper herb usage, and smoking also accelerate kidney decline.
Public health officials urge those within high-risk categories—particularly diabetic and hypertensive patients—to secure kidney screenings yearly at their local healthcare facilities. With early detection, patients can engage more effective management strategies to slow the progression of the disease, thereby minimizing health complications.
Signs to look out for include unusual urination patterns, particularly foamy or dark-colored urine, frequent nighttime urination, fatigue, anemia, and swelling around the body, particularly the feet, ankles, and face. High blood pressure, if uncontrolled, poses additional risks. Dr. Hanbanjerod states, "If anyone observes these warning signs, they should seek medical evaluation for kidney screening immediately to prevent deteriorative outcomes."
Authorities believe initiatives like World Kidney Day can catalyze significant public engagement. Campaigns currently aim to motivate individuals to monitor their kidney health actively. An intensified focus on education around kidney health and responsible health behaviors could pave the way for improved outcomes over time.
For more information or to inquire about kidney health screenings, Thais can contact the Department of Disease Control at the helpline 1422.
