Silent Epidemic: Why Middle-Aged Adults Are Suddenly at Risk of Kidney Failure – And the Surprising Reason Behind the Alarming Trend
Kidney Disease in Thailand: A Growing Concern
Dr. Atthaphon Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary General of the National Health Security Office (NHSO), discusses the alarming situation of kidney disease in Thailand. With approximately 11.6 million patients, Thailand has the fifth highest incidence of kidney disease worldwide.
The age of patients with kidney disease is decreasing, shifting from the elderly to middle-aged individuals. This trend is attributed to modern lifestyle factors, such as consuming spicy and processed foods, which can lead to kidney deterioration without noticeable symptoms. Reducing consumption behaviors that risk kidney deterioration is crucial for prevention.
End-stage chronic kidney disease requires kidney replacement therapy, including hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplant surgery. In the past, the cost of hemodialysis was exorbitant, with sessions costing 4,000-5,000 baht and requiring 10-15 sessions per month.
The NHSO recognizes the financial burden on patients and their families, prompting them to seek government support for comprehensive treatment under the National Health Insurance Scheme or “Gold Card 30 Baht” program. This initiative aims to provide accessible and affordable treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease.
Renal Replacement Therapy Options
Upon diagnosis, doctors explain the pros and cons of each treatment method, allowing patients to decide on the most suitable option. There are three primary methods of renal replacement therapy:
- Hemodialysis using a machine
- Peritoneal dialysis through the abdominal cavity
- Kidney transplant surgery
Currently, there are approximately 62,000 patients with end-stage chronic renal failure in the Gold Card system, with 40,000 undergoing hemodialysis, 21,000 on peritoneal dialysis, and around 100 patients undergoing kidney transplant surgery.
“Each method of kidney replacement therapy has its advantages and disadvantages. For instance, hemodialysis is convenient, but patients must travel to the hospital frequently, incurring high travel expenses,” Dr. Atthaphon explains.
Peritoneal Dialysis: A Viable Option
Peritoneal dialysis allows patients to lead relatively normal lives, as they can perform the treatment themselves. The NHSO provides dialysis solutions at patients’ homes, eliminating the need for hospital visits and travel expenses. Patients can engage in various activities while undergoing dialysis, and the automatic peritoneal dialysis machine (APD) facilitates treatment during sleep and daily routines.
Thailand reports lower infection rates for peritoneal dialysis patients compared to the global average, thanks to the expertise of peritoneal dialysis doctors and nurses. They provide training on self-dialysis methods and offer home visits to advise on adapting the environment for dialysis.
The Thailand Post Company ensures continuous delivery of dialysis solutions to patients’ homes, even in situations of natural disasters. Patients in the Gold Card system can rely on a steady supply of dialysis fluid.
“Peritoneal dialysis enables patients to pursue careers and contribute to the country’s GDP. This method is particularly suitable for working-age patients. The provision of benefit packages for end-stage renal failure demonstrates the effectiveness of the national health insurance system, significantly reducing the burden on patients, families, and the country,” Dr. Atthaphon emphasizes.