Simple Urine Test a Lifesaver: Especially for Diabetics and High BP

Last Updated on July 21, 2024 by The Health Master

Urine Test

A recent state public health department report in Tamil Nadu highlights the effectiveness of a simple, cost-effective dipstick urine test in identifying individuals at risk of Chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Large-Scale Urine Dipstick Testing Program

The state implemented a “dipstick urine testing programme” across primary health centers and sub-centers.

Between July 2023 and May 2024, over 5.7 million (57 lakh) people with diabetes and hypertension underwent the test.

This large-scale initiative aimed to detect CKD early and prevent serious health complications.

Dipstick Urine Test: A Quick and Easy Screening Tool

The dipstick urine test is a painless and non-invasive procedure.

It involves dipping a plastic strip containing chemical pads into a urine sample.

These pads react and change color based on the presence of various substances in the urine.

Key Findings of the Dipstick Urine Testing Program:

• The test identified 13,082 patients with high levels of albumin in their urine. Albumin is a protein that shouldn’t be present in significant amounts in the urine. Its presence indicates potential kidney damage.
• Following further investigations like blood tests, renal function tests, and abdominal ultrasounds, 946 individuals (7.2%) were diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• The study highlights the importance of early detection, particularly for individuals with high blood pressure, who are at higher risk for heart and blood vessel problems and have an increased mortality rate.

Dipstick Urine Test: A Powerful Tool for Early CKD Detection

Dr. T.S. Selvavinayagam, director of public health, emphasizes the advantages of the dipstick urine test:

• Quick and Accurate: The test provides results quickly and reliably.
• Convenient and Cost-Effective: It’s a simple and affordable screening tool that can be easily implemented in primary healthcare settings.
• Early Detection: Early identification of albuminuria allows for timely intervention and treatment to manage CKD and prevent complications.

Chronic Kidney Disease in Tamil Nadu

A previous survey by Madras Medical College revealed an 8.4% prevalence of CKD in Tamil Nadu, making it the state’s fifth leading cause of death. With the rising prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, the burden of CKD is expected to increase further.

Geographic Disparity in CKD Prevalence

The dipstick data analysis revealed a higher percentage of CKD in individuals with higher levels of albumin in their urine. Additionally, the study identified a geographic disparity in CKD prevalence:

• Cuddalore: 11.4%
• Villupuram: 8.3%
• Kanyakumari: 6.7%
• Chennai: 4.5%

Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.

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