Introduction:
The Uddanam region of Andhra Pradesh is experiencing an exceptionally high incidence of chronic kidney disease, notably within specific endemic areas. In response to this critical public health issue, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has established a dedicated kidney research centre and hospital in the region. This facility is designed to provide comprehensive urology and nephrology services, aiming to address the extensive healthcare needs associated with chronic kidney disease in the area. The current study aimed to quantify this center's patient volume and healthcare utilization patterns, providing insights into the scale of CKD burden and healthcare demands.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis of hospital records from March 2024 to Aug 2024. Data collected included the number of patients seeking care at the urology and nephrology departments, the volume of kidney function marker tests performed, the number of diagnostic imaging procedures conducted, and the total dialysis sessions performed.
Results:
Over the reported period, the urology and nephrology departments experienced a substantial patient volume, averaging 29 daily visits, totaling 4601 patient footfalls. This high demand for renal care was reflected in the volume of laboratory and imaging procedures performed. A total of 2666 serum creatinine and 637 serum urea tests were conducted, highlighting the need for frequent assessment of kidney function. Furthermore, 1298 sodium and 1295 potassium tests demonstrate the significant utilization of electrolyte monitoring in this patient population. Diagnostic imaging also played a crucial role in patient management, with 346 CT scans and 1178 ultrasounds performed. The center’s 18 dialysis units, operating daily with an average of 45 sessions per day, underscore the substantial need for renal replacement therapy within this high CKD endemic region.
Conclusions:
The high volume of patients, tests, and procedures at India's first dedicated kidney center in Uddanam reveals this region's immense burden of CKD. While the center provides crucial specialized care, tackling the root causes of this high CKD prevalence is vital. This requires sustained investment in etiological research, preventive Strategies and early detection programs. By combining specialized care with research, prevention, and early detection, we can strive for a future where CKD no longer poses a significant threat to Uddanam and other endemic regions.
I have no potential conflict of interest to disclose.
I did not use generative AI and AI-assisted technologies in the writing process.