It’s generally believed that everyone is born with two kidneys, but that’s not always the case. According to the World Health Organization, about one in every thousand children worldwide is born with a single kidney — a condition known as renal agenesis. Naturally, this raises concerns for parents about whether their child can live a normal, healthy life. Experts reassure that with proper care and medical monitoring, such children can grow up healthy and active, just like any other child.

Dr. Shandeep Kumar Sinha, Director of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology at Medanta–The Medicity, Gurugram, explains that children born with one kidney can lead completely normal lives if regular health checkups are maintained and basic precautions are followed. With the help of modern ultrasound technology, this condition can even be detected before birth, allowing parents to consult doctors early and ensure proper management from the beginning.

Dr. Sinha emphasizes that annual urine protein tests and blood pressure monitoring are essential for children with a single kidney. These tests help identify any early signs of kidney strain or damage so that preventive measures can be taken promptly. However, parents should not worry excessively — such children can play, exercise, and participate in daily activities without restriction, as long as their health remains stable.

In most cases, a special diet is not required, but it’s important to avoid foods or substances that can burden the kidneys, such as excessive salt, junk food, and carbonated drinks. Encouraging healthy habits like staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, and avoiding unnecessary medications also supports kidney health.

Dr. Sinha adds that in rare instances, being born with one kidney may be part of a larger medical syndrome involving other organs, but in most cases, it does not impact a child’s overall growth or development. The remaining kidney usually adapts by becoming slightly larger and taking on the full function of both kidneys.