The Department of Nephrology at Christian Medical College, Vellore celebrated World Kidney Day on Thursday with the theme ‘Kidney Health for Everyone Everywhere’. The public awareness and screening programme was organised on the hospital campus which saw the participation of over 500 persons.

Head of the Department of Nephrology, Santosh Varughese motivated everyone to pledge their organs for donation. A total of 31 staff members of the Nephrology Department pledged their organs for donation by completing the forms.

The nephrology team organised a health programme in Ida Scudder School, a quiz for Allied Health and Nursing students, and poster/ slogan competition for the staff of CMC to promote awareness of kidney health. A screening programme was conducted for security staff of CMC.

“Most kidney diseases are silent and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a silent killer. CKD can be prevented in those with risk factors and controlled by following healthy diet and keeping blood pressure and blood sugars under check. Our aim is primarily to create awareness among public about preventing kidney diseases and thus reduce the prevalence of CKD in the community,” said Dr. Santosh Varughese.

Medical Superintendent Prasad Mathews, Nursing Superintendent Premila Lee, Dean, College of Nursing Vatsala Sadan, Associate Director Priya Abraham, Head of Paediatric Nephrology Indira Agarwal and Rev. Lalbiak Sanga, Chaplain participated.

Professor and former Head of the Department of Nephrology, CMC, V. Tamilarasi spoke on the importance of creating awareness of preventing kidney disease and promoting kidney health.