Articles tagged with Nephropathies
Two studies found that pomegranate juice can lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and the need for blood pressure medications in kidney disease patients. Meanwhile, over 15% of kidney disease patients take potentially harmful herbs or dietary supplements.
A $3.9 million grant will enable research to identify protective factors that prevent diabetes complications in long-term insulin-dependent diabetes patients. The study aims to find biomarkers and therapeutic agents to halt diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy, which significantly impact lifespan and quality of life.
A new Medicare payment system may unfairly penalize dialysis clinics that provide care to patients with complex medical and social issues. The study found that patient characteristics, particularly adherence to prescribed treatments, significantly impact a facility's achievement of the pay-for-performance measure.
A systematic review published in The Cochrane Library found that regular exercise can improve physical fitness, walking capacity, and heart rate among people with CKD. Exercise programs can also increase muscular strength, reduce blood pressure, and enhance overall quality of life.
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center found no association between sickle cell trait and risk of non-diabetic or diabetic end-stage kidney disease. The study contradicts earlier findings that suggested having one copy of the sickle cell gene increased kidney disease risk.
The tip sheet highlights common barriers to depression disclosure among patients, including concerns about antidepressant prescriptions and confidentiality. It also explores the widespread use of NSAIDs by patients with chronic kidney disease, despite warnings against their use. Additionally, the article critiques long-established coro...
A blood test measuring fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) levels can identify kidney disease patients who are at high risk of developing heart problems, needing dialysis, and dying prematurely. FGF-23 levels are strongly associated with key outcomes in CKD patients.
High levels of fibroblast growth factor-23, a hormone regulating phosphorous levels, can predict premature death in kidney patients. The discovery allows for earlier interventions with drugs to lower phosphorous and reduce hormone levels.
People with metabolic syndrome have a 55% increased risk of developing kidney problems, especially lower kidney function. Preventing and managing metabolic syndrome through healthy diet, exercise, and weight loss may help prevent kidney disease.
Researchers found that adolescents and young adults with persistent, microscopic blood in their urine had a higher risk of developing end-stage renal disease over a 20-year follow-up period. The study included data from 1,203,626 individuals and revealed a significantly increased risk of ESRD associated with the condition.
A study of 586 children with mildly to moderately impaired kidneys found that they often experienced poor growth, delayed puberty, metabolic problems, and high blood pressure. These conditions can be slowed by more aggressive interventions to improve blood pressure and metabolic abnormalities.
Researchers have discovered a breakthrough therapy for patients with kidney disease by reprogramming their own kidney cells. The process involves collecting cells from urine and coaxed them into becoming progenitor cells that can form healthy kidney tissue.
A study by Loyola University Health System researcher Holly Kramer found that a large waist circumference doubles the risk of dying among kidney disease patients. Waist circumference was more strongly linked to mortality than BMI, a commonly used measure of obesity.
The prevalence of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in the US has increased significantly over the past two decades, with a 34% rise from 1988-1994 to 2005-2008. The estimated numbers of persons with DKD have also increased, from 3.9 million in 1988-1994 to 6.9 million in 2005-2008.
The US medical workforce is facing a kidney brain drain as fewer students adopt nephrology as a career. Despite the growing health problem of kidney disease, many students believe nephrologists are overworked and underpaid. However, experts propose strategies to improve interest in nephrology, including providing stimulating experience...
A recent study published in The Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that higher metabolic rates are associated with early natural mortality, indicating potential acceleration of aging. Higher energy expenditure was linked to increased risk of organ damage and accumulation of toxic substances.
Chronic kidney disease is common among the elderly and linked to cardiovascular disease. The study found that different formulas for estimating kidney function yield varying prevalence rates, emphasizing the need for a gold standard.
Researchers analyzed 47 studies involving over 327,000 patients with chronic kidney disease and found no significant association between serum phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, or calcium levels and the risk of death or cardiovascular events. The study suggests that current clinical guidelines for mineral metabolism in patients with kid...
A four-year study aims to develop drugs that inhibit the degradation of protective metabolites in the kidneys, which are damaged by diabetes. Researchers hope these inhibitors could halt the progression of diabetic nephropathy and slow the rise of end-stage renal disease.
Researchers identified a single genetic mutation in the CUBN gene linked to albuminuria, a condition indicating kidney disease, in both diabetic and non-diabetic individuals. The study's findings have significant implications for understanding the mechanisms behind kidney disease and potentially leading to novel treatment targets.
Researchers found that Klotho hormone levels are low in patients with chronic kidney disease, which can lead to serious side effects. Restoring adequate Klotho levels improved renal function and reduced vascular calcification in mice with CKD.
Researchers analyzed data from 592 patients with type 1 diabetes and macroalbuminuria to identify predictors of End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) and pre-ESRD mortality. The study found that poor glycemic control increases ESRD risk but not pre-ESRD mortality, while improved lipid management affects both outcomes.
Researchers found mammograms show calcifications in the blood vessels of nearly two-thirds of women with end-stage renal disease, potentially contributing to heart disease risk. The study suggests mammograms may be a useful tool for studying cardiovascular disease progression in kidney patients.
A study found that most primary care physicians and kidney specialists prefer shared care for patients with progressive chronic kidney disease, but their preferences on how and when to collaborate differ. Effective collaboration is crucial in slowing CKD progression or preparing patients for dialysis or transplantation.
A vegetarian diet has been shown to lower blood and urine phosphorous levels in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study found that grain-based protein sources, such as those found in vegetables, may help reduce the risk of accumulating toxic levels of phosphorus in the body.
A study of over 29,796 dialysis patients found that naturally high hemoglobin levels were not associated with increased mortality. In fact, the researchers discovered that patients with higher hemoglobin concentrations had a similar risk of dying as those with lower levels, after adjusting for other factors.
A new study reveals that the UK's richest and poorest continue to experience significant health disparities, with lower-income groups facing higher rates of kidney disease, diabetes, obesity, and smoking. The study highlights the need for continued efforts to address these inequalities and improve public health outcomes.
Researchers have identified a protein that compromises kidney function and cause nephrotic syndrome. A naturally occurring precursor to an acid in the body may offer a new potential treatment for some forms of the condition.
A new review suggests that excessive amounts of fructose may play a role in high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. The study recommends restricting added sugars containing fructose for patients with CKD to lower the risk of these health conditions.
Children with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) are more likely to have mothers who were obese or had diabetes during pregnancy. Strict control of diabetes and weight loss may lower kids' risk of CKD.
A study found that individuals with a common gene variant are 1.5 times more likely to have progressive kidney disease than those with other genotypes. The MYH9 variant was present in 55% of African American patients and associated with a 50% higher risk of death, ESRD, or significant drop in kidney function.
A study by Elizabeth Hedgeman and colleagues found that earlier nephrologist care is associated with lower ESRD incidence and improved patient outcomes. Patients who received recommended care were in better health, more prepared for dialysis, and had a 40% lower risk of death during the first year after developing ESRD.
Researchers analyzed data from a nationwide study of over 5,200 adults and found that African Americans have faster rates of decline in kidney function compared to white Americans. Hispanic participants also showed faster declines, but with varying effects by country of origin.
A study found that pomegranate juice reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to fewer hospitalizations due to infections. It also improved cardiovascular risk factors, suggesting better heart health for hemodialysis patients.
The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) is convening a Summit on the Nephrology Workforce to address the growing crisis in kidney care. The summit aims to increase interest in nephrology careers, particularly among underrepresented minorities and women.
The Halpin Foundation-ASN Research Grant has enabled researchers to study the PCP pathway's role in regulating podocyte architecture and nephrin organization. This finding establishes a mechanism for the regulation of foot processes in membranous nephropathy.
A study found that starting dialysis earlier in advanced kidney disease was associated with a greater risk of death. Patients who began dialysis early had a higher mortality rate compared to those who started later, especially those with lower albumin levels.
A new registry based on electronic health records could help physicians improve care for patients with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease. The registry, developed at the Cleveland Clinic, houses information on 57,276 CKD patients and has been validated as reliable for tracking disease progression.
Chronic kidney disease patients who don't adhere to high blood pressure medications are more likely to have sub-optimal blood pressure control. Improving medication adherence can greatly improve outcomes for these patients.
A new study has found a strong association between low birth weight and poor growth rate in children with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The research, published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, analyzed data from over 400 children with CKD and found that those born with lower birth weights were more likely ...
A study found that measuring three biomarkers in a single blood sample can improve physicians' ability to identify patients at high risk of developing CKD. The biomarkers included homocysteine, aldosterone, and B-type natriuretic peptide.
Research highlights that kidney disease patients' blood pressure management needs are not one-size-fits-all, with age, race, and diabetes affecting mortality risk. The rate of kidney function decline also significantly impacts patient prognosis, suggesting a need for tailored strategies to protect kidney function.
Patients with higher muscle mass tend to live longer if they have kidney disease, according to a recent study. Researchers found that increased mid-arm muscle circumference was associated with improved mental health scores and longer survival rates.
A national study found that keeping blood pressure at 130/80 mm Hg reduced the risk of disease progression by 27 percent for patients with proteinuria. However, intensive lowering of blood pressure in all African-Americans did not slow disease progression.
A study found that malnutrition and inflammation status are key to understanding the effects of high cholesterol on kidney disease patients. Patients with malnutrition and/or inflammation had an inverse relationship between cholesterol levels and cardiovascular events, unlike those without these conditions.
Researchers found that mice treated with chromium picolinate had lower levels of albuminuria compared to untreated diabetic mice. The supplement reduced inflammation by affecting IDO, IL-6, and IL-7, suggesting a potential therapeutic effect.
A recent study suggests that aggressively treating hypertension in African Americans with kidney disease can significantly decrease the number of patients who lose kidney function and require dialysis. The study found a 25% reduction in end-stage kidney disease among those with protein in their urine.
A study of 5037 European hemodialysis patients found that fluctuating hemoglobin levels do not increase the risk of mortality. Patients with consistently low hemoglobin levels had a higher risk of dying, however.
Researchers have identified a rare form of kidney disease linked to a genetic mutation in the innate immune system, causing progressive kidney malfunction and blood in urine. The condition, named CFHR5 nephropathy, has been found in over 100 people of Cypriot descent and is potentially serious but can be detected through DNA testing.
Researchers identify a genetic mutation in the immune system causing chronic kidney disease in Cypriot families, with symptoms including blood in the urine and progressive kidney malfunction. The mutation dates back to a single common ancestor over 16 generations ago.
Research shows that community poverty is linked to lower rates of arteriovenous fistula use among newly diagnosed dialysis patients in poorer communities. This suggests that targeted interventions are needed to improve pre-dialysis care for these patients.
Recent guidelines call for lower target blood pressure levels in CKD patients, but a critical review finds the data is not definitively supported by scientific evidence. The author suggests that doctors should make individualized decisions about blood pressure control for their patients with kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease patients with depression are more likely to be hospitalized, progress to long-term dialysis treatments or die within a year compared to those without depression. Depression is associated with poorer health outcomes, including higher rates of hospitalization, dialysis, and mortality.
Despite high rates of sexual dysfunction among CKD patients, little is known about effective treatments. The review found that drug treatment was helpful for male patients with erectile dysfunction but few studies evaluated safety and side effects in CKD patients.
Mayo Clinic researchers discovered chronic mild kidney injury in the kidneys of healthy adults, increasing with age. The study, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, highlights the need for new tests to detect mild kidney disease more accurately.
A randomized trial found that high-dose B-vitamin therapy accelerated kidney function decline and increased cardiovascular events in patients with type 1 or 2 diabetes. The study suggests that B-vitamin therapy may not be an effective treatment for slowing disease progression, and potentially poses risks for these patients.
A new study by Johns Hopkins Medicine reveals that black children with chronic kidney disease have more severe anemia than white children, even when treated equally. The research suggests that genetic variations may be at play and could require tailored treatment guidelines.
Researchers found that only a small percentage of children with abnormal urine dipstick results actually developed chronic kidney disease. The high cost of the test, estimated at $3.47 per patient, made it an ineffective screening method. The study validated American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations to discontinue routine screening.
A global study of over 65,000 individuals has identified more than a dozen genes associated with chronic kidney disease. The researchers found that common genetic variations in these genes were more frequent in people with poor kidney function or chronic kidney disease.
Many kidney diseases are caused by single gene defects, providing opportunities for diagnosis and treatment. The discovery of causative genes enables personalized medicine and the development of targeted therapies.