Expert stresses early diagnosis and advanced treatment for rising urological disorders in Kashmir
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, May 9: In a major step towards improving access to specialised healthcare services in Kashmir, Gurugram-based Manipal Hospitals has launched a dedicated Urology and Renal Transplant OPD in Srinagar. The initiative is aimed at providing patients in the Valley with direct access to advanced consultation and specialised treatment for a wide range of complex urological and kidney-related conditions, an area where many patients continue to face challenges due to limited availability of super-speciality care.
The newly launched OPD will offer expert consultation for disorders such as kidney stones, prostate enlargement, urinary tract complications, renal cancers, bladder diseases, and transplant-related concerns. The facility is expected to significantly ease the burden on patients who often travel outside the region in search of advanced urological treatment and second opinions.
The OPD will be led by Dr. Arif Akhtar, Principal Consultant – Urology, Uro-Oncology, Robotics and Renal Transplant at Manipal Hospitals, Gurugram, who is known for his expertise in minimally invasive urological procedures, robotic-assisted surgeries, uro-oncology, and renal transplantation. Through the initiative, patients in Srinagar will now be able to directly consult specialists regarding advanced treatment pathways, early diagnosis, and long-term management of complicated urological conditions.
The launch comes at a time when urological disorders are steadily emerging as a significant public health concern across India. Medical experts have observed a notable rise in cases of kidney stones, urinary disorders, and urological cancers, particularly among younger individuals. Factors such as poor hydration, unhealthy eating habits, obesity, stress, and increasingly sedentary lifestyles are believed to be contributing to the growing incidence of such conditions.
According to studies referenced by the National Library of Medicine, nearly 12 to 15 per cent of the Indian population is affected by kidney stone disease, with North India often referred to as part of the country’s “stone belt” because of the high prevalence of cases.
Specialists warn that ignoring symptoms such as persistent back pain, blood in urine, recurrent urinary infections, or difficulty while urinating can lead to serious complications if not diagnosed and treated in time.
Speaking on the launch, Dr. Arif Akhtar said the growing burden of urological diseases in Kashmir highlights the urgent need for specialised intervention and greater awareness among patients regarding early symptoms and preventive healthcare.
“Urological disorders are increasingly being observed among younger individuals today. In Kashmir, many patients continue to face challenges in accessing specialised urology and uro-oncology care, often resulting in delayed diagnosis and complications. Raising awareness about early symptoms, regular health check-ups, and timely medical intervention can play an important role. Moreover, advancements in treatment, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries, are enabling more precise treatment and improved outcomes for patients,” he said.
He further noted that rapid technological advancements in the field of urology have transformed the way several complex diseases are now treated. Modern robotic and minimally invasive procedures are helping surgeons perform highly precise operations with reduced blood loss, smaller incisions, faster recovery periods, and improved long-term outcomes for patients suffering from prostate cancer, kidney tumours, reconstructive urological conditions, and transplant-related complications.
Through the Srinagar OPD, Manipal Hospitals aims not only to provide specialised consultations but also to strengthen continuity of care by ensuring timely follow-ups, guidance for advanced surgical procedures, and access to expert-led treatment planning. Hospital officials said the initiative reflects the institution’s broader commitment to expanding high-quality healthcare services to underserved regions and improving access to specialised medical expertise across the country.
Manipal Hospitals is among India’s leading healthcare providers, serving more than eight million patients annually through a network of 49 hospitals across 24 cities. The healthcare group currently operates over 12,600 licensed beds and is supported by a workforce of more than 11,000 doctors and over 34,000 employees. Known for its comprehensive preventive and curative healthcare services, the hospital network has also earned multiple national and international accreditations for quality care, patient safety, and nursing excellence.
