World Kidney Day is observed on March 11, raising awareness about kidney health and the prevalence of kidney disease. In Croatia, it is estimated that approximately 200,000 individuals suffer from some degree of kidney failure but are often unaware of their condition. The lack of symptoms in the early stages of kidney disease complicates diagnosis, making it crucial for people to be informed about risk factors such as high blood pressure and diabetes, which are common companions of kidney issues.

Ana Papeš, who underwent a kidney transplant at the age of five, shares her story of resilience, explaining that her transplanted kidney functioned well for 27 years before she faced the reality of needing dialysis again. Despite her three weekly dialysis sessions, she emphasizes the importance of proper organization in managing her health and living a normal life. Her experience sheds light on the challenges faced by those with chronic kidney conditions and urges others to seek awareness and medical advice regarding kidney health.

Mario Laganović, the president of the Croatian Society for Nephrology, Dialysis, and Transplantation, notes that kidney diseases often arise from chronic non-communicable diseases, primarily hypertension and diabetes. He outlines the importance of early detection and management, as patients frequently do not exhibit symptoms until the disease has progressed significantly. This makes understanding kidney health paramount during events like World Kidney Day, which aim to educate the public and encourage proactive health measures.