Kidney related problems are gradually increasing among Gen Z in Hyderabad and other parts of Telangana state. Many gym-goers are experiencing elevated serum creatinine levels, some individuals are dealing with protein leakage in their urine.

Additionally, students in schools and colleges are taking inadequate water due to constant stress levels leading to an increase in urinary infections. These concerns have been highlighted in recent research conducted by doctors at the Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology (AINU).

Dr. Avula Naveen Reddy, Consultant Nephrologist at AINU, stated that at least three to four cases involving Gen Z patients are reported at their hospital every month, which is a noticeable increase compared to previous years.

"Recently, most of our kidney related cases involve individuals aged between 16 to 20 years, which primarily includes Gen Z. Many of these cases are in the early stages. On average, we receive three to four cases per month, with issues such as elevated creatinine levels, protein leakage, and urinary infections. These problems may have existed a decade ago, but due to a lack of widespread screening at the time, they were not diagnosed as often.

Now, routine screenings and comprehensive medical tests, especially those required before studying abroad, are revealing these issues. If both raised creatinine levels and urinary protein leakage are present, we recommend a kidney biopsy and further testing be warranted. If there is no protein leakage and only raised creatinine levels we advise conservative measures, medications. If there are persistent raised levels of creatinine despite the above measures they require further evaluation to pinpoint the cause and treat accordingly.

Doctors advised to follow a low to moderate protein diet, avoid painkillers, unnecessary over the counter medications, stay hydrated by drinking enough water and fluids, and reduce red meat consumption. Moderate amount of exercise, adopting a healthy lifestyle and eating healthy and minimizing the use of whey protein, turning towards clean plant protein from diet and avoiding unnecessary supplements, advised the doctor.

Dr. Naveen Reddy also highlighted that many educational institutions, including both residential and day scholar schools, do not have adequately maintained rest rooms. As a result, Gen Z students drink less water and fluids to avoid using them leading to dehydration and an increased risk of urinary infections and kidney stones.

Symptoms to watch out for kidney diseases:

* Noticing excessive foam in their urine, could indicate protein leakage

* Fever associated with abdominal pain, frequent urination, and burning urine— typical of urinary tract infections

* Traces of blood in the urine may indicate urinary tract infections and kidney stones.

These issues are affecting both boys and girls equally. While these conditions are not immediately life-threatening, early detection and timely treatment are crucial. World kidney day this year is celebrated on March 13 with the motto of “Prioritizing Early Detection for Healthy Kidneys,” emphasizing the power of catching kidney issues early before they develop into more serious problems.