What's Happening?
A new study from the Karolinska Institutet, published in Kidney International, reveals that small changes in kidney function, even within normal test result ranges, can indicate a higher likelihood of developing chronic kidney disease later in life. The
research team has developed a web-based tool to help detect these risks earlier, potentially preventing serious damage. Chronic kidney disease is a growing global health issue, affecting 10-15% of adults worldwide, and is projected to become one of the top five causes of years of life lost by 2040. The study introduces population-based reference charts for estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), the standard measure for kidney health, to help clinicians identify elevated risks earlier. These charts compare an individual's kidney function with others of the same age and sex, allowing for earlier preventive measures.
Why It's Important?
The development of this tool is significant as it addresses a major challenge in kidney disease management: the lack of widespread screening. Many patients are diagnosed only after significant kidney function loss, limiting treatment options. By providing a method to detect risk earlier, the tool could lead to timely interventions, potentially reducing the incidence of kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation. This approach could transform clinical practices by encouraging more proactive monitoring and management of kidney health, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs associated with advanced kidney disease.
What's Next?
The web-based calculator, developed as part of the study, is now available to healthcare professionals to support clinical decision-making. It allows clinicians to see where a patient falls within age-based population norms, facilitating earlier intervention. The study's findings highlight the need for additional testing, such as urinary albumin tests, for individuals with eGFR levels below the 25th percentile, even if they appear normal. This could lead to changes in clinical guidelines and practices, promoting more comprehensive kidney health assessments.
