Telangana has recorded the highest mortality rate from chronic kidney disease (CKD) in India, according to a recent study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research (IJMR).
The study found that 19.84 people per lakh population died due to kidney disease in Telangana in 2023, the highest rate among all Indian states. In comparison, Rajasthan reported the lowest mortality rate at 6.71 deaths per lakh population.
Interestingly, researchers noted that Telangana did not have the highest number of kidney disease cases. The state’s incidence rate stood at 241.57 cases per lakh population, while Haryana recorded the highest incidence at 316.35 cases per lakh. This suggests that patients in Telangana may be experiencing poorer outcomes despite having comparatively fewer new cases.
The report also highlighted that Telangana recorded the highest Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY) rate in the country at 666.38 per lakh population, indicating a significant burden from both premature deaths and years lived with illness.
Diabetes and Hypertension Major Factors
Researchers identified diabetes and hypertension as the leading contributors to kidney-related deaths in the state.
- Type 2 diabetes accounted for 25% of CKD deaths in Telangana, the highest proportion in India.
- Type 1 diabetes contributed to 6.6% of new CKD cases, also the highest nationally.
Medical experts believe that late diagnosis and limited access to timely treatment are worsening outcomes. Many patients are diagnosed only after developing complications, reducing the chances of effective intervention.
Comparison with Other Southern States
The study found a stark contrast within southern India:
- Kerala: 9.1 deaths per lakh population
- Tamil Nadu: 9.83 deaths per lakh population
- Andhra Pradesh: 11.64 deaths per lakh population
- Karnataka: 13.34 deaths per lakh population
- Telangana: 19.84 deaths per lakh population
Researchers noted that Kerala and Tamil Nadu have achieved lower mortality rates through Early diagnosis, Stronger healthcare systems and Better long term management of kidney disease.
Call for Policy Action
The authors urged the government to include chronic kidney disease in India’s National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NPCDCS). They recommended:
- Regular screening for people with diabetes and hypertension,
- Establishment of state level kidney disease registries,
- Improved access to dialysis and transplantation services under Ayushman Bharat, and
- Greater awareness campaigns promoting early detection.
Health experts warn that unless immediate measures are taken, the burden of kidney disease could continue to rise, placing thousands of lives at risk.
