Kidney disease is a “silent threat” that many are unaware of until it reaches a severe stage. Therefore, Srinagarind Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, organized a campaign under the concept “Screen, Prevent, Understand Kidney Disease, and Care for the Earth” on World Kidney Day 2026. The event will take place at the Multipurpose Dome of Northeastern Technology College, Khon Kaen Province, from 10:30 hrs to 15:30 hrs on 6 March 2026.

On this occasion, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, the “Rop Rua KKU” program, broadcast on KKU Radio FM 103 MHz from 10:10 AM to 11:00 AM, interviewed experts from Srinagarind Hospital to raise awareness about kidney disease, prevention, and the importance of early screening. They also provided accurate information to the public, including Dr. Sawinee Kongpetch, a physician at the Center of Excellence in Kidney Disease, and Ms. Pornthima Pho-armat, a specialized artificial kidney nurse.  

Understanding “Chronic Kidney Disease”: A Silent Threat Not to Be Overlooked

Dr. Sawinee Kongpetch explained that Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition in which kidney function gradually declines for more than three months. As a result, the kidneys lose their ability to effectively filter waste products and regulate water balance, electrolytes, and blood pressure. If untreated, the disease may progress to end-stage renal disease, requiring treatments such as haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplantation.

Individuals considered at risk include those with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, people aged over 60, individuals with a family history of kidney disease, and those who regularly use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or herbal medicines for prolonged periods. These groups are strongly advised to undergo regular kidney screening.

Emphasizing “Early Detection, Early Knowledge, Slows Kidney Deterioration”

Dr. Sawinee further added that chronic kidney disease is a silent threat that often shows no symptoms in its early stages, leading many patients to seek medical attention only when the disease has reached a severe stage. Therefore, screening is crucial, especially for the at-risk groups mentioned earlier. While early stages often lack symptoms, as the disease progresses, signs may include swelling in the face, feet, or ankles; abnormal urination such as excessive foam, dark color, or reduced volume; fatigue; easy tiredness; loss of appetite; nausea; and difficult-to-control blood pressure. If these symptoms occur, blood and urine tests should be conducted to evaluate kidney function. Kidney health can be maintained by controlling blood sugar and blood pressure levels, reducing salt intake, drinking adequate clean water, exercising regularly, and avoiding unnecessary pain medications or herbal remedies.

4 Approaches to Renal Replacement Therapy

Ms. Pornthima Pho-armat explained that when kidney disease reaches its final stage, patients require “renal replacement therapy” to take over the function of the kidneys, effectively starting a new life. Currently, there are four methods, and patients have the right to choose their treatment approach, though doctors and healthcare professionals will provide recommendations based on the patient’s physical condition and consider their healthcare benefits. Currently, there is a policy for “free dialysis for all rights” covering the Gold Card (30 baht), Social Security, and civil servant benefits. The term “free dialysis” refers to two main methods: hemodialysis with an artificial kidney machine and peritoneal dialysis. The four methods of renal replacement therapy are:

1. Hemodialysis: This method is widely known and requires treatment at a hospital. Doctors surgically prepare blood vessels for dialysis, and nurses closely monitor the procedure. Patients must travel to the hospital for treatment according to a scheduled timetable.
2. Peritoneal Dialysis: This method can be performed at home. Doctors surgically insert a small catheter into the abdomen to allow dialysis fluid to exchange waste products. While this reduces hospital visits, strict hygiene practices are required to prevent infection.
3. Kidney Transplantation: This is considered the most effective method, as patients can return to a near-normal life. However, it is limited by the wait for a donated kidney, which requires registration with the Thai Red Cross Society and compatibility testing. The waiting time varies: some wait a few months, while others may wait several years. Generally, Srinagarind Hospital sets an age limit of 65 for transplant recipients, considering physical readiness and co-existing diseases. In cases where relatives wish to donate a kidney, it is possible if they are direct relatives or siblings with the same parents, as well as spouses legally married for over three years or who have children together. All must undergo thorough physical examinations, blood tests, tissue compatibility tests, psychiatric evaluations, and strict legal checks to prevent organ trafficking. If all criteria are met, the process may take approximately no more than 6 months.
4.  Palliative Care: This is suitable for elderly patients or those with severe co-existing conditions, such as severe heart disease, end-stage cancer, or bedridden patients. This method does not involve dialysis or additional surgery but focuses on improving quality of life, alleviating pain, and reducing suffering to allow patients to live out the natural course of their disease peacefully.

The Role of the Family is Crucial

Regardless of the method chosen, the family plays an extremely important role, especially in providing emotional support, as patients undergo significant lifestyle changes, whether they are children, adolescents, working adults, or the elderly. For children and adolescents, families must provide close care. For the elderly, families should help them attend medical appointments and manage their diet and medication. The key is to provide encouragement and ensure patients do not feel a loss of self-worth. Some patients, even nearing 80 years old, can undergo dialysis and return to light work at home, such as sewing or weaving silk, which helps them feel valuable and motivated to continue living.

Ms. Pornthima further explained, “Although kidney disease is severe, with appropriate treatment and family support, patients can have a good quality of life and continue to live meaningfully.” The treatment process requires significant resources, including water and energy. Therefore, the “Care for the Earth” concept aims to promote efficient resource utilization, waste reduction, and the creation of environmentally friendly service systems, alongside providing quality patient care.     

Dr. Sawinee concluded by stating, “Kidney disease is preventable if detected early and understood.” Annual screening for at-risk groups is a key to slowing kidney deterioration and reducing the chance of progressing to end-stage renal failure. Importantly, treating kidney failure, such as hemodialysis, uses a large amount of clean water per session. Developing efficient resource management guidelines, reducing medical waste, and promoting early disease prevention are therefore additional ways to reduce the burden on the environment and the public health system in the long run, aligning with the “Care for the Earth” concept for the World Kidney Day 2026 campaign.

This year’s World Kidney Day campaign not only focuses on kidney disease prevention and treatment but also reflects the role of medical institutions in driving a sustainable healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of self-care and societal well-being simultaneously.

 

News/Photos: Benjamaporn Mamook