India could be heading toward a more proactive approach to chronic kidney disease, with a Parliamentary Standing Committee recommending routine kidney function testing for everyone aged 20 years and older. In its 177th report on CKD prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management, the committee proposed mandatory kidney function testing every six months for adults aged 20 and above. It also recommended annual screening for people at high risk of CKD, with testing available through the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases.

Under the proposal, biannual testing would be free for people below the poverty line and available at a nominal cost for those above the poverty line. For high-risk individuals, screening should include estimated glomerular filtration rate and urine albumin or protein assessment, followed by appropriate referral and follow-up.…