TNR News Network
Shimla: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is silently gaining ground in Himachal Pradesh, emerging as a major public health concern.
A recent research study conducted by Himachal Pradesh University-Shimla has flagged the escalating prevalence of CKD in the state, particularly pointing to Shimla as a significant hotspot.
The study, based on clinical data from patients treated at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) Shimla, examined 2,609 CKD cases recorded between 2014 and 2023. Alarmingly, nearly 40% of these patients belonged to Shimla district alone. Shimla was followed by Mandi (14.5%), Solan (10%) and Kullu (8.6%) districts, while tribal district Lahaul-Spiti reported the lowest incidence at just 0.6%.
The study revealed that men are more affected, comprising 60.2% of the total CKD patients, compared to 39.8% women. The disease is most prevalent among individuals aged 57 and above, with the 57-67 age group showing the highest concentration. The data also shows that 2023 saw the highest yearly spike in a decade, with CKD cases touching 16.9% of the total — a steep rise from just 6% in 2017.
According to nephrologist Dr. Kamakshi Singh from IGMC, uncontrolled diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of CKD. “Protein leakage in urine, kidney infections, delayed treatment of kidney stones and prolonged exposure to certain water contaminants are aggravating factors,” she explained.
Lifestyle habits like smoking, alcohol consumption, stress and poor diet further contribute to kidney damage.
Another concerning finding is the potential role of excess chlorine used in drinking water purification, which may harm kidney function over time.
Poor access to clean water, erratic eating schedules, lack of exercise and mounting mental health issues are creating a perfect storm for CKD to spread quietly across the state.
