Date:15/03/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/03/15/stories/2008031550740200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Crucial role of kidneys brought to the fore

Staff Reporter

Many students take part in walkathon
“Awareness of kidney failure
is quite low”

CHENNAI: One out of 10 adults the world over has some form of kidney damage, according to statistics of the International Federation of Kidney Foundations. Chennaiites are no different. And due to changing lifestyles, the young are not immune either. What can be done about it? Spread the word about the ‘amazing kidneys.’

On Thursday, the Tanker Foundation conducted a walkathon and an awareness programme to observe World Kidney Day. The International Federation of Kidney Foundations and the International Society of Nephrology has declared the second Thursday of March as World Kidney Day every year.

This year, the tag line is “amazing kidneys,” articulated to bring to light the important task the kidneys played in one’s body.

Early Thursday morning, hundred of students walked a stretch of the Marina beach to create awareness of important facts about kidney.

Latha Kumaraswami of Tanker Foundation said the walkathon was conducted to increase awareness of the functioning of the kidney, what could go wrong with it and how it could be stopped.

“We were very happy to see more than 800 students from schools and colleges across the city join us for the walk,” she said.

A familiar face amongst the crowd was actor Karthi, who also participated in the walkathon along with Health Secretary V.K. Subburaj, who was present for its inauguration.

Later in the evening, the Tanker team interacted with shoppers at Spencer Plaza and introduced them to various aspects of the kidney. A power point presentation was made, pamphlets distributed and a quiz conducted. Caps and other small goodies were given to engage the crowd.

Ms. Latha said awareness of kidney failure is quite low as there was much more attention being drawn to conditions such as HIV/AIDS.

Poster campaign

Tanker foundation also carried out a poster campaign in schools, airports and bookshops. “The high incidence of diabetes and hypertension has resulted in an increase in the number of people who suffer from kidney failure in this city too. Attention has to be drawn towards this fantastic organ and its well being too,” she stressed.