World Kidney Day 2025: Annually, World Kidney Day is celebrated on the second Thursday of March to promote awareness regarding kidney diseases and the importance of their prevention. This year, the observance will take place on March 13.

When kidney function declines significantly, healthcare professionals typically recommend either dialysis or a kidney transplant. However, which option is more beneficial for kidney health? In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sujeeth Reddy, a senior consultant nephrologist at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology in Hyderabad, elaborated on the advantages and disadvantages of both dialysis and kidney transplantation.

Dialysis:

“Dialysis is a procedure that removes waste, excess fluid, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so,” said the nephrologist. He explained the two types of dialysis: 

Hemodialysis (HD): Blood is filtered through a machine outside the body.

Peritoneal dialysis (PD): The abdominal lining acts as a filter, with fluid exchanges done manually or via a machine.

Advantages of dialysis:

• Readily available; no need to wait for a donor.
• Suitable for patients who are not fit for surgery.
• Peritoneal dialysis allows more flexibility and can be done at home.

Disadvantages of dialysis:

• Time-consuming (HD requires 3-4 sessions per week, each lasting 4 hours).
• Can cause complications like infections, low blood pressure, and fatigue.
• Does not restore normal kidney function; long-term survival is lower than with transplantation.

Kidney transplantation:

“A kidney transplant involves replacing a failed kidney with a healthy one from a living or deceased donor. It offers the best long-term outcome for most ESRD patients,” the doctor added. 

Advantages of kidney transplantation:

• Better quality of life: No need for frequent dialysis sessions.
• Longer survival: Transplant patients typically live longer than those on dialysis.
• Fewer dietary restrictions compared to dialysis.
• More energy and fewer complications related to kidney failure.

Disadvantages of kidney transplantation:

• Not everyone is eligible: Requires good overall health and compatibility with the donor.
• Lifelong immunosuppressive medications: These prevent rejection but can increase the risk of infections and other side effects.
• Limited availability of organs: Many patients remain on the waiting list for years.
• Surgical risks: Includes infection, bleeding, and potential rejection of the new kidney.

Dialysis vs kidney transplant: Which one is better?

Dr. Sujeeth Reddy stated that kidney transplantation is typically the most favorable option for eligible patients, as it provides improved quality of life and increased longevity. Nevertheless, for individuals who are not suitable candidates for transplantation, dialysis serves as a vital and effective alternative. The decision between these options is influenced by medical eligibility, donor availability, and the preferences of the patient. Seeking guidance from a nephrologist can assist in identifying the most appropriate course of action for each person.
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