Monday, April 13, 2009

New editorial on the growing kidney disease epidemic and how to better combat it
by Kelly Winget

In honor of World Kidney Day in March, the DCRI's Lynda Szczech, MD, and others addressed some of the challenges in tackling the rising global health concern of chronic kidney disease.

The editorial appeared in the March issue of the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology. World Kidney Day was observed on March 12.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 27 million people in the U.S. , and the rate of people who have the disease has increased by almost 30 percent in the past 10 years. Studies suggest that around the world, the rate of CKD has increased by up to 13 percent. As the population ages, CKD will continue to be a significant health concern in coming years, particularly since the risk of developing CKD increases as people get older.

One concern lead author Szczech raises in the editorial is the high cost associated with treating kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. Because of this, the authors emphasize that it is vital to have a comprehensive strategy in place to address the health problems that are associated with kidney disease. They also urge health care providers to look at how age and obesity can contribute to risks for CKD.

In the editorial, the authors stress the importance of educating patients but also communities about kidney disease and improving early identification of kidney disease. In North Carolina, local efforts at educating people about CKD includes a mobile unit with a fully functional exam room, bathroom, and waiting area, to make it easier for people to access early screening programs.

Click here to read the full editorial.