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.
Researchers at Nationwide Children's Hospital developed a mouse model of vesicoureteral reflux, a condition that can lead to chronic kidney disease. The study found that these models lacked the protein fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (Fgfr2), which is involved in tissue and organ development.
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.
A new clinical prediction index can calculate survival for patients with end-stage kidney disease, helping clinicians and patients decide between transplantation or dialysis. The index has been proven to accurately predict mortality among eligible patients.
A study found that up to 42% of people with undiagnosed diabetes and nearly 18% of those with prediabetes have chronic kidney disease. This suggests a significant number of individuals may be at risk for worsening kidney disease, emphasizing the need for earlier screening and timely medical care.
A new study found that automated laboratory reporting of estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was associated with a significant increase in first-time visits to a kidney specialist, especially among older or female patients and those at increased risk of late detection of kidney disease. The rate of visits increased by 68% for pa...
Avosentan significantly reduces urinary protein loss in people with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease, but also causes serious side effects such as pulmonary edema and congestive heart failure. Lower doses of avosentan may have a more favorable risk/benefit ratio for patients.
The ACCOMPLISH study shows that initial treatment with benazepril plus amlodipine reduces CKD progression more effectively than benazepril plus hydrochlorothiazide. This benefit was seen in patients at high risk for cardiovascular events.
Researchers found that even mild low potassium levels increase the risk of death in heart failure patients with chronic kidney disease. The study suggests routine monitoring and maintaining safe potassium levels to mitigate poor outcomes.
Researchers found that even mild to moderate kidney disease can lead to physical, emotional, intellectual, and social challenges in children. Children with chronic diseases currently do not qualify for special education until their scores decline dramatically. Early attention to quality-of-life issues is crucial.
A study found that end-of-life care falls short for kidney disease patients, with many lacking adequate support and education. Patients expressed a desire for help planning for the future, pain management, and psychosocial support, but these services were not routinely integrated into their care.
A study of 1,243 male US veterans with moderate-to-advanced chronic kidney disease found that both high and low blood calcium levels increased the risk of dying prematurely. High calcium levels were linked to a 31% increased risk, while low levels resulted in a 21% higher mortality rate.
Researchers found that darbepoetin alfa had no significant impact on cardiovascular problems or death rates in patients with chronic kidney disease and anemia. However, the study revealed a notable increase in stroke risk among those taking the drug, compared to placebo group members.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that carotid endarterectomy surgery significantly reduces the risk of future strokes in patients with chronic kidney disease. The procedure was shown to be safe and effective, without increasing the risk of death from surgical complications.
A new clinical tool helps determine if kidney disease patients on dialysis are likely to die within the next few months. The model considers a doctor's estimate of prognosis, nutritional status, age, and additional illnesses or conditions.
A new study finds that US per capita food waste has increased by about 50% since 1974 to over 1400 Calories per person per day, equivalent to 150 trillion Calories per year. This excessive energy content contributes significantly to freshwater consumption and fossil fuel emissions.
A study found that nearly 40% of children with chronic kidney disease have masked hypertension, which increases the risk of heart problems. Children with masked hypertension are four times more likely to develop left ventricular hypertrophy, a common consequence of untreated hypertension.
A study found that one-third of children with CKD have masked hypertension, which increases the risk of left ventricular hypertrophy and heart disease. Children with masked hypertension are four times more likely to develop LVH, highlighting the need for regular blood pressure monitoring outside the clinic.
Declining kidney function increases the risk of heart failure and premature death. Treatments that slow kidney function decline may safeguard heart health by stabilizing it in the normal range before kidney disease develops.
A study found that small increases in phosphorus are associated with higher coronary artery calcification and an increased risk of heart disease. Participants with lower kidney function were also more likely to have progressive CAC.
A clinical study found that cutting back on processed and fried foods, high in AGEs, reduces inflammation and restores natural defenses. The 'AGE-less diet' reduced blood AGE levels and improved biomarkers of vascular function by 60%, even in people with kidney disease.
Researchers have identified a new molecular pathway and class of molecules that can prevent potassium buildup in the bloodstream, which can cause fatal cardiac arrest. This discovery could lead to the development of new drugs to treat hyperkalemia, a condition affecting 8% of hospitalized patients.
Researchers found that oral activated charcoal lessens atherosclerotic lesions in experimental mice with kidney damage. This effect appears to be related to reduced inflammation in the blood vessels, regardless of treatment timing or changes in blood pressure or cholesterol levels.
Women with chronic kidney disease are more likely than men to be undiagnosed, according to a new study. The study found that primary care physicians need more education on diagnosing CKD, which could lead to improved patient outcomes and cost savings.
Recent medical school graduates are more likely to refer CKD patients for preemptive kidney transplantation, which can improve patient outcomes. The study suggests that educating veteran physicians about the benefits of preemptive transplantation may increase early referrals.
Researchers found that patients with higher kidney function at the time of transplant did not have a significant advantage in terms of long-term health. However, they did require less dialysis and were less likely to experience kidney rejection after transplantation.
A nationwide study of 13,000 Americans found that nearly 60% of the elevated risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in African Americans may be attributed to low vitamin D levels. Researchers also discovered that vitamin D deficiency contributes significantly to the increased risk of ESRD among African Americans compared to whites.
A long-term follow-up study found that lifestyle intervention and metformin therapy can persistently delay the onset of type 2 diabetes for at least 10 years. The studies showed a significant reduction in diabetes incidence rates, with lifestyle intervention delaying onset by about 4 years and metformin by 2 years compared to placebo.
A study has found that coronary angiography does not harm kidney function in advanced chronic kidney disease patients, enabling better transplant decisions. The test detected coronary artery disease in some patients, making them unsuitable for transplantation until their heart complications were addressed.
For kidney disease patients, regular physical activity may prolong life and reduce mortality risk. A recent study found that active patients were 56% less likely to die than inactive counterparts.
A study found that male diabetics with higher eosinophil counts in their blood have a stronger link to diabetic nephropathy and increased risk of heart disease. Anti-inflammatory treatments used for allergies may also benefit male patients with diabetes.
A Monash University study has identified the role of microscopic antennas in the kidney's repair process, shedding light on a potentially fatal disease. The research, led by Dr. James Deane, showed how hair-like structures called cilia change their length in response to injury, amplifying signals that turn off the repair process.
A study published by the American Society of Nephrology found that weight loss through diet and exercise can reduce proteinuria and slow down kidney function decline in obese patients with kidney disease. Surgical interventions also show promise in normalizing kidney filtration rates.
The ERC is funding top researchers, including Sanna Lehtonen's group, to study the development of albuminuria and diabetic nephropathy. They aim to identify novel drug leads to treat insulin resistance and combat early stages of kidney disease.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found a significant link between depression and early-stage chronic kidney disease, with 57 out of 272 participants identified as depressed. The study suggests that depression screening should be considered for patients in the early stages of chronic kidney disease.
Scientists have developed a new mouse model of X-linked nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, a severe kidney disease. The model shows that selective EP4 receptor agonists alleviate the symptoms of the disease, suggesting these compounds as potential therapeutics.
Researchers found 44 genes up-regulated in CKD patients, including 11 involved in oxidative phosphorylation. Elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were also detected, suggesting a vicious circle of respiration dysregulation that contributes to CKD.
Researchers identify a genetic mutation in the renin gene as a cause of inherited kidney disease, characterized by anemia and progressive kidney disease. The discovery provides insight into the role of renin in blood pressure regulation and offers potential treatment options.
A new approach to statistical analysis shows that a higher dose of dialysis can lead to longer survival times for patients with advanced kidney disease. The study found no significant effect with conventional methods, contradicting previous conflicting results.
A study found that chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a significant impact on the quality of life of patients, particularly women, diabetics, and those with heart problems. The study suggests that medical care for CKD patients should include strategies to lessen the negative impact of CKD on quality of life.
Researchers analyzed data from studies on type 1 diabetes to find that intensive treatment can significantly reduce the risk of complications. The study showed improved outcomes in patients treated with more intensive therapy.
A recent study found that 'enhanced' fresh meat products often contain high levels of phosphorous and potassium not listed on food labels. This can be problematic for kidney disease patients who must limit these substances to avoid premature death.
A new laboratory test called urine neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) has been found to help predict acute kidney injury (AKI) in intensive care patients. NGAL levels are also higher in patients with HIV-associated nephropathy, a complication of HIV affecting African Americans and black Africans.
A daily dose of sodium bicarbonate slows the decline of kidney function in patients with advanced chronic kidney disease, reducing the rate of progression by about two-thirds. Patients taking baking soda also experience improvements in nutrition and are less likely to develop end-stage renal disease.
A study published in the Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that dialysis does not affect the heart health of kidney disease patients who have had a heart attack. Researchers identified predictors of high risk, such as potassium levels and patient condition severity.
Researchers have identified the protein ILK as promoting growth of aggressive rhabdomyosarcoma cells and suppressing ERMS cell growth. A therapy targeting ILK may provide a tailored approach for treating the lethal form of RMS, ARMS.
Two studies in the American Journal of Pathology demonstrate stromal caveolin-1 as a prognostic marker for breast cancer progression, correlating with reduced metastasis levels. Additionally, researchers have identified novel biomarkers for chronic kidney disease progression, predicting progressive renal fibrosis and glomerular filtrat...
A new study shows that overnight dialysis is a viable alternative for patients with irreversible kidney disease, offering improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare burden. The long-term results of this therapy were found to be well-tolerated by most patients, with lower rates of anemia and reduced levels of urea in their blood.