Sapiens Health Foundation a NGO operating from Chennai has been celebrating World Kidney Day for more than a decade. This year the function was low key affair due to Covid19 and held at Ampa Skywalk Mall, Chennai on Thursday, 12th March, 2020. The theme for 2020 is “Kidney Health for Every One Everywhere” with special emphasis on prevention and equality. The World Kidney day also coincided with the World Salt Week. A sample snack prepared with less amount of salt was distributed at the mall. Tips were given to protect and screen for kidney disease. Famous Film director K.S. Ravikumar handed over the snack to Popular actor Crazy Madhu Balaji. Dr. Rajan Ravichandran, the chairman of the foundation stressed on the high prevalence of kidney disease amongst the adult population. Almost one in 10 persons has reduced kidney function if sensitive tests are used. Simple screening test like blood pressure measurement and protein leak in the urine are important markers of early kidney disease. He also highlighted the importance of consuming less salt even when the blood pressure is normal. The event highlighted the need for greater awareness among the younger population on Kidney related diseases and reduced salt intake with posters and video screening of slogans and messages. Mr. R.Sundar, trustee shared that the Foundation has taken note of the current scenario posed by the Corona Virus and the need to follow Government’s advice on public gatherings and hence did not organize a full-fledged celebrations on this World Kidney occasion. He mentioned that during this event precautions to be taken by the public for Corona Virus threat was communicated through visuals apart from the educative messages on Kidney care.
