
Why are Indian households struggling with medical costs despite health initiatives?
HEALTH PROTECTION GAP
Widened by 21% since 2017 in emerging Asia.
China alone accounts for nearly half the region's gap
Key Drawback: Rising medical costs from 2017
Reasons:Gaps in coverage and access
Agencies
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2024
More Indian households experienced difficulty in affording medical costs
Despite initiaitives like Ayushman Bharat (2018) and various state insurance schemes, gaps in coverage remain in India
Low disposable incomes and inadequate public health infrastructure leave uninsured households vulnerable

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Time of India
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Kidney Health: Warning signs that mimic other conditions
Kidneys are the silent multitaskers of our body. From filtering waste, balancing fluids, regulating blood pressure, and supporting red blood cell production, the kidneys do it all tirelessly. But when kidney health begins to decline, the warning signs often don't creep up distinctly. Kidney disease is one of the most underdiagnosed health conditions globally, not because it's rare, but because it hides in plain sight. More often than not, the warning signs resemble symptoms of other, more common conditions. Fatigue? It could be anemia. Swollen ankles? Maybe just salt retention. Frequent urination? Possibly diabetes. Because early kidney disease is notoriously subtle, it's often diagnosed too late, when irreversible damage has already occurred. Kidney disease: The 'silent' killer Kidney disease is often referred to as a 'silent killer' for good reason. You can lose up to 90% of kidney function before experiencing noticeable symptoms. Unlike heart disease or diabetes, kidney problems typically don't cause acute pain or dramatic symptoms in the early stages. Instead, they show up in quiet, confusing ways, disguised as fatigue, skin problems, digestive issues, or urinary tract symptoms. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Switch to UnionBank Rewards Card UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo This makes early detection a challenge, but also a necessity. In 2025, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect approximately 850 million people worldwide. With CKD affecting nearly 1 in 10 adults globally, it's crucial to recognize how kidney problems can masquerade as other health issues. Here's what to watch for before it's too late. Fatigue, brain fog, or trouble concentrating What it could be: Fatigue is commonly blamed on stress, poor sleep, iron deficiency, or burnout. It can even come from anemia or mental health issues. 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The kidney connection: As kidneys fail, phosphorus levels rise and calcium drops, leading to itchy skin and muscle twitches. Uremic toxins can also irritate nerve endings and muscles, causing widespread discomfort. In severe cases, this leads to uremic frost, a rare condition where urea crystals form on the skin. Sudden weight fluctuations and/or loss of appetite What it could be: Changes in weight and appetite are often linked to digestive disorders, depression, or infections. The kidney connection: Uremic buildup can cause nausea, a metallic taste, and appetite loss, leading to unintentional weight loss. Fluid retention may cause a temporary weight gain or bloated feeling, which can also fluctuate daily depending on the kidneys' fluid-handling capacity. What to do: The necessary steps Kidney disease often flies under the radar, quietly advancing while mimicking more familiar conditions. 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Time of India
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