Kidney Related Deaths Triple in Karnataka Over the Past Decade

The number of medically certified deaths linked to kidney and urinary system diseases in Karnataka has risen substantially over the past decade, according to data from the Medical Certification of Cause of Death.

The figures show that 5,940 such deaths were recorded in 2016. By 2025, the number had increased to 18,730. The rise is particularly notable when compared with the overall growth in medically certified deaths during the same period.

In 2025, around 1.6 lakh deaths in Karnataka were medically certified. The corresponding figure in 2016 was more than 1.4 lakh. While the total number of medically certified deaths increased by only about 8 percent, deaths associated with diseases of the kidney and urinary system grew at a much faster rate.

The latest figure means these diseases accounted for about 11.8 percent of all medically certified deaths recorded in 2025. They were reported as the third largest category of cause of death after diseases affecting the circulatory and respiratory systems.

The increase has not happened in a single year. Data cited in reports shows that the number of deaths began rising more noticeably after 2018. There was a relatively small decline in 2018, but the overall trend has remained upward.

In 2019, Karnataka recorded 7,402 medically certified deaths linked to this category. The number rose to 9,884 in 2021, followed by 13,569 in 2022 and 17,689 in 2024. The figure then reached 18,730 in 2025.

Doctors say several health conditions may be contributing to the growing burden of kidney disease. Diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity are among the important risk factors associated with declining kidney function. Changes in lifestyle and other health related factors may also be playing a role.

Consultant nephrologist Dr Deepak Chitralli of Manipal Hospital in Yeshwanthpur, Bengaluru, told the Times of India that the increase could be linked to a combination of such risk factors.

Diabetes is a particular concern because prolonged poor blood sugar control can damage the kidneys. According to the expert cited in the report, kidney complications may occur in a significant proportion of people living with diabetes, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and medical care.

Kidney health is also closely connected with cardiovascular health. When kidney function declines, blood pressure can become more difficult to control. Persistent high blood pressure can then place additional stress on the heart and blood vessels.

The relationship can work in both directions. Cardiovascular problems can affect kidney function, while worsening kidney disease can increase cardiovascular risks. This connection makes early detection and management of underlying health conditions important.

Age is another major factor visible in the data. People aged above 45 accounted for about 87.8 percent of deaths attributed to kidney failure. Among those aged above 70, 5,648 deaths were recorded, representing about 37.7 percent of the total kidney failure deaths in the reported data.

Doctors have also raised concerns about the unsupervised use of protein supplements, particularly among younger people. Some consumers may take supplements without checking their ingredients, quality or suitability for their individual health needs.

Experts have cautioned that unregulated or poor quality products may carry health risks. People considering protein supplements, especially those with existing kidney problems or other medical conditions, should discuss their use with a qualified healthcare professional rather than taking them routinely without advice.

The sharp increase in recorded kidney related deaths does not by itself establish one single cause for the trend. Changes in disease patterns, diagnosis, access to medical care, population age and death certification practices can all influence reported figures.

However, the data highlights the growing importance of kidney health in Karnataka. Conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are common chronic health problems, and their long term management can be important for protecting kidney function.

Regular health checks can help identify problems earlier, particularly for people with diabetes, high blood pressure or other known risk factors. Medical advice is also important when symptoms or abnormal test results raise concerns about kidney function.

The figures from 2025 therefore provide a broader warning about the increasing burden of kidney and urinary system diseases in the state. While further research is needed to understand the reasons behind the sharp rise, the trend underlines the importance of preventive healthcare, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.