Kidneys in Focus: Celebrating 20 Years of Awareness on World Kidney Day 2025

World Kidney Day (WKD) is a global initiative observed annually on the second Thursday of March to spotlight the critical role kidneys play in human health and to address the growing burden of kidney disease worldwide.
In 2025, this significant day falls on March 13, marking the 20th year of its observance since its inception in 2006. Jointly spearheaded by the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations (IFKF), WKD unites healthcare professionals, patients, advocates, and communities in a shared mission to promote kidney health awareness, encourage early detection, and reduce the impact of kidney-related conditions. With chronic kidney disease (CKD) affecting an estimated 850 million people globally and causing millions of deaths annually, the importance of this day cannot be overstated.

History of World Kidney Day

The origins of World Kidney Day trace back to 2006 when the ISN and IFKF collaborated to launch a global campaign addressing the rising prevalence of kidney disease. The inaugural theme, "Are Your Kidneys OK?" set the tone for a movement focused on education, prevention, and early intervention. Initially observed in 66 countries, participation grew to 88 nations within two years, reflecting a global recognition of kidney health as a public health priority.
Over the years, WKD has evolved to address diverse aspects of kidney care, from tackling risk factors like diabetes and hypertension to advocating for equitable access to treatment. This year, the campaign celebrates two decades of impactful advocacy, adapting its focus to meet contemporary challenges in kidney health.

Significance of Kidney Health

Kidneys are remarkable organs, performing essential functions that sustain life. These bean-shaped structures, located below the rib cage, filter approximately 120-150 liters of blood daily, removing waste and excess fluids to produce urine. Beyond filtration, kidneys regulate blood pressure, maintain electrolyte balance, and stimulate red blood cell production through the release of erythropoietin. 
When kidney function declines, the consequences can be severe, leading to fluid buildup, electrolyte imbalances, and increased cardiovascular risk. CKD, a progressive condition, often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only in advanced stages. Left unchecked, it can progress to kidney failure, necessitating dialysis or transplantation—options that are costly and not universally accessible.

India’s Kidney Crisis: A Statistical Snapshot

India grapples with a heavy kidney disease burden, with chronic kidney disease (CKD) affecting about 17% of its population. End-stage kidney disease (ESKD) strikes 229 per million annually, yielding around 310,000 new cases.
Diabetes drives 31% of CKD, followed by hypertension.
Of the 200,000-250,000 needing kidney transplants yearly, only 8,000-12,000 succeed due to donor shortages and costs. Dialysis reaches just 10-20% of those needing it, leaving most without care and at high risk of death. This gap highlights India’s urgent need for better kidney health resources.

The Theme of World Kidney Day 2025

For 2025, the World Kidney Day Joint Steering Committee has announced the theme: "Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health." 
This theme echoes the campaign’s original call to action while emphasizing the transformative power of early detection. It urges individuals to recognize risk factors—such as diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history—and seek timely screening through simple blood and urine tests. 
By catching kidney disease in its early stages, progression can be slowed, complications minimized, and quality of life preserved. The theme also aligns with global efforts to integrate kidney health into broader public health frameworks, ensuring that screening and care are accessible to all.

Dera Sacha Sauda’s Contribution to Kidney Health

Dera Sacha Sauda, led by the supreme guidance of Saint Dr. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan, has emerged as a beacon of hope in the fight against kidney disease, particularly for underserved communities. 

Through monthly free medical camps and dedicated campaigns that offer consultations, treatments, and medications to the impoverished at no cost, Dera Sacha Sauda has been providing expert care to lakhs of people.
These camps also provide critical access to kidney health screenings and care, addressing the needs of those who cannot afford private healthcare.
For patients requiring dialysis, Dera Sacha Sauda offers this life-saving treatment at minimal charges for the underprivileged, or even free of cost for the extremely poor people, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of survival.
Saint Dr MSG also encourages to get complete checkup every 6 months as a preventive strategy to timely detect, diagnose and treat any diseases.
Beyond immediate care, Saint Dr. Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan passionately encourages individuals to become live kidney donors through legal and medically approved channels, inspiring a culture of selfless giving.
Remarkably, 56,820 volunteers have pledged to donate their kidneys, and 15 of these compassionate individuals have already donated to strangers in desperate need—unrelated by blood but united by humanity.
This extraordinary commitment exemplifies Dera Sacha Sauda’s dedication to alleviating the suffering caused by kidney diseases, kidney failure and fostering a legacy of generosity.

Tips to Maintain Good Kidney Health

It is vital to maintain a good lifestyle, follow healthy diet and drink ample water to maintain good kidney health. The below points are highly recommended by medical practitioners: 

Exercise Regularly: Engage in 30 minutes of moderate activity (e.g., walking, yoga) 5 days a week to boost circulation and control blood pressure.

Eat Kidney-Friendly Foods: Choose fruits (e.g., berries), vegetables (e.g., spinach), whole grains, and lean proteins; keep sodium below 2,300 mg daily.

Stay Hydrated: Drink 2-3 liters of water daily, adjusting for climate and activity, and avoid sugary beverages.

Limit Toxins: Reduce alcohol consumption and quit smoking to lower kidney stress.

Monitor Health: Regularly check blood pressure and blood sugar to detect risks early

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite the progress made, significant challenges persist.
Disparities in healthcare access exist due to which millions lack routine screening or treatment options. Malnutrition, limited clean water, and inadequate medical resources in certain areas further exacerbate this problem.
Addressing these inequities requires a multi-faceted approach: strengthening health policies, training healthcare workers, and fostering international collaboration.
WKD 2025 provides a platform to galvanize such efforts, raise awareness and take action.

Conclusion

World Kidney Day 2025 stands as a testament to two decades of dedication to kidney health, uniting the global community in a shared purpose. The theme, "Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health," encapsulates the essence of this mission, reminding us that early awareness and intervention are the cornerstones of prevention. 
By embracing this theme, individuals can take charge of their health, policymakers can prioritize screening, and societies can work toward a future where kidney disease no longer claims lives prematurely. On March 13, 2025, let us commit to asking—and answering—the vital question: Are your kidneys OK? 
Through collective action, we can protect kidney health for generations to come. Let's follow the healthcare guidelines given by Saint Dr Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh Ji Insan and care for our kidneys, pledge to help those in need, spread awareness, and unite to secure a healthier future for all.