Studies have shown that 850 million people are affected by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), with over 2 million people worldwide receiving dialysis or living with a kidney transplant. Almost 2.5 lakh people die of kidney failure in India every year. It is the third largest killer after malignancy and heart disease.
In India more than 80% of women who are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease are abandoned by their spouses and families. In some cases, they are abandoned with their children.
The total number of women dying due to kidney disease is grossly underestimated in India because of a lack of a kidney dialysis registry. 70% of dialysis patients in India are male reflecting the gender disparity in access to treatment.
In most cases the increased financial burden of dialysis coupled with additional medical, nutritional expenses not to mention the psychological impact of the illness on the patient create huge barriers for women in particular to have access to dialysis.
Dialysis Support
Kidney disease has a drastic effect on the lives of patients and their families that is often underestimated. Dialysis offers a solution to improve the quality of life and if caught early, it can save the patient and turn their lives and the lives of their family members around.
The average life expectancy of a patient on dialysis is five to ten years. It is common for women to choose not to undergo dialysis due to the costs associated with it. They often prefer to spend the money on their children instead.
How Adhyan Supports
At Adhyan we support women who are on dialysis and fund their treatment costs. We also support their specific nutritional needs, supplements, other medical requirements and mental health reviews to help them cope and overcome the disease.
Divya's Story
Divya, 28 years old, works as a domestic maid. She has 3 small children. Two years back, she was diagnosed with kidney issues and thyroid imbalance. Her treatment began but she did not feel better.
She then approached Bangalore Kidney Foundation (BKF). She was considered for dialysis treatment, which she has been receiving for free for 2 years.
“The hospital is kept clean. The doctors and staff are friendly. They take care of me very well. BKF and Adhyan are also providing me with free medication and nutrition supplements. And they are helping financially with my children’s education too. I am deeply grateful to BKF and Adhyan for helping me manage my life and get access to good quality treatment.” says Divya.
More from our Grantees
