A study analyzing Medicare data found that increasing preventive care measures, such as influenza vaccines and blood glucose monitoring, correlates with lower heart disease incidence in CKD patients. These measures can slow disease progression and improve overall health outcomes.
A study found that hypoglycemia may account for some portion of excess heart-related deaths in CKD patients. Patients with CKD and diabetes are at highest risk of developing hypoglycemia, which can lead to severe health complications.
A study published in Clinical Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that patients with more knowledge about dialysis are more likely to use permanent vascular access. The researchers also identified factors associated with lower knowledge, including age, education level, and race.
A study of 298 black and 945 white male patients found that blacks with moderate and advanced chronic kidney disease lived longer than whites once they reached later stages. Blacks had a lower prevalence of cardiovascular disease, which contributed to their better survival rates.
Researchers have identified multiple chromosomal regions associated with genes influencing variation in proteinuria, particularly in the setting of diabetes or hypertension. The study's findings suggest that genetic variation likely accounts for part of the increased risk of kidney disease in American Indians.
A study suggests that combining glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urinary albumin levels can predict which patients with chronic kidney disease will develop end-stage renal disease. This combination test could help identify patients at high risk of serious kidney trouble.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that enzyme replacement therapy with agalsidase alfa slows kidney function decline in men with Fabry disease. The therapy showed promise when initiated early, particularly for those with higher initial kidney function.
Studies found that partial correction of severe anemia with erythropoietin improves heart structure, while normalization of hemoglobin levels reduces fatigue in kidney disease patients. However, treating to a normal hemoglobin level may cause harm and is not recommended for all patients.
A study from the American Chemical Society reports that proteins from garden peas show promise in fighting high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. The researchers found a 20% drop in blood pressure in rats with polycystic kidney disease when fed small daily doses of pea protein hydrolysate.
A study found that proteinuria levels are higher in children with low glomerular filtration rates and non-Caucasian race, suggesting genetic or environmental factors. The study also found that patients taking renin-angiotensin system antagonizing drugs had lower levels of proteinuria compared to those not on these medications.
A new study by Kaiser Permanente researchers found that chronic kidney disease independently increases the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation. Kidney function may provide an additional clue about how to best assess stroke risk and decide upon the best prevention strategy for patients with AF.
A commonly used questionnaire for measuring quality of life in ADPKD patients is not sensitive enough to detect physical and mental problems. The study found links between patient characteristics and physical scores, but no significant difference in quality of life scores compared to the general population.
High-flux hemodialysis reduces the risk of premature death in patients with CKD by eliminating large toxins. Patients with diabetes showed a significant survival benefit from high-flux dialysis, while benefits were not observed in all patient groups.
A study found that chewing gum with a phosphate-binding ingredient can help maintain proper phosphate levels and prevent cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. Salivary phosphate levels decreased significantly after two weeks of chewing, while blood phosphate levels also showed a notable reduction.
A study found that individuals with high urinary protein levels are at increased risk of developing kidney disease. Screening for albuminuria in the general population or high-risk groups could help prevent kidney function loss and related health issues.
Researchers discovered that many processed and fast foods contain phosphorus additives, which can be just as dangerous for patients with advanced kidney disease as naturally high-phosphorus foods. Studies found that avoiding these additives significantly lowers phosphorus levels among patients.
A recent study published in PLoS ONE found that women who drink two or more cans of soda per day are nearly twice as likely to show early signs of kidney disease. The study also did not find an elevated risk for men or diet soda consumption.
Measuring glomerular filtration rates from routine blood work may not be a cost-effective way to identify people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The test can lead to 11,348 more false positive CKD cases than serum creatinine reporting.
A phase 3 clinical trial has shown that ferumoxytol, a novel intravenous form of iron, is effective in treating iron deficiency in CKD patients on dialysis. The study found significant improvements in hemoglobin levels compared to oral iron supplementation.
A new formula estimates glomerular filtration rate (GFR) using demographic variables and biochemical markers, providing a valuable tool for pediatricians to monitor kidney function. The equation was found to be comparable with more complicated tests and superior to other recently published equations.
Researchers created a simple model to predict patients at high risk for chronic kidney disease, using an eight-point risk factor checklist. The model accurately stratifies middle-aged and older patients and has been validated across different cohorts.
Studies suggest taking phosphorus binders reduces death risk in new dialysis patients and those with less-severe CKD. The treatment could benefit a larger population of patients with pre-dialysis CKD.
A study published in JASN found that even mild increases in serum phosphorus levels are associated with cardiovascular events in people with moderate chronic kidney disease. Vascular calcification, detected by CT scans, was more common in patients with higher phosphorus levels, increasing the risk of coronary artery calcification.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have discovered that high doses of thiamine can dramatically decrease albumin excretion and reverse early-stage diabetic kidney disease. The study found that 300mg of thiamine taken orally daily for three months reduced albumin excretion by 41% in type 2 diabetes patients.
A study by the American Society of Nephrology found that patients with poor health literacy are less likely to receive kidney transplants. Roughly one-third of dialysis patients had inadequate health literacy, which hindered their ability to navigate healthcare systems and follow transplant instructions.
A study found that acute kidney injury increases the risk of end-stage renal disease among elderly patients, highlighting the importance of close monitoring and timely interventions.
The Canadian Society of Nephrology has released new guidelines to slow progression, prevent complications, and reduce mortality in chronic kidney disease patients. The guidelines encourage shared care among general practitioners and specialists.
The recently passed Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 will significantly impact nephrology practice and patient care. Key provisions include funding for CKD education sessions, bundled payment systems, and quality measures to improve efficiency and outcomes.
Individuals with kidney stones are at a 60% greater risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD), according to a new study. Researchers recommend careful monitoring of stone formers and appropriate treatment when needed.
A newly developed equation estimates glomerular filtration rate (GFR) more accurately than the widely used Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation, especially at higher GFR levels. The CKD-EPI equation was validated using data from over 8,000 patients and shows lower bias compared to the MDRD equation.
A clinical trial found that cognitive-behavioral therapy significantly improves depressive symptoms and quality-of-life scores in patients with kidney disease on dialysis. After three months of weekly sessions, patients showed a substantial reduction in depression and improved cognitive function.
Research presented at the American Society of Nephrology's Annual Meeting found African Americans with CKD caused by high blood pressure have a higher risk of progression to ESRD. The study followed 691 patients for 11 years and found they were at higher risk of progressing to ESRD than experiencing cardiovascular events.
Researchers found improved cognitive function in transplant patients, particularly in verbal learning and memory. In contrast, dialysis patients showed declining test scores over time. The study suggests that kidney transplantation may have a beneficial effect on patients' mental function.
A study compared the survival of dialysis patients undergoing heart bypass surgery or stent placement, finding that stents offer best one-year survival but bypass surgery is superior for long-term results. The study's findings suggest that treatment choices depend on individual patient goals and risk tolerance.
A study of 107,693 Canadians found Aboriginal people with severe kidney disease were 43% less likely to visit a nephrologist and almost twice as likely to be hospitalized for preventable conditions. Understanding the barriers to healthcare is crucial to addressing these inequities.
The Halpin Foundation has awarded a research grant to Dr. Elena Torban, focusing on podocytes and their role in preventing proteinuria in nephrotic syndrome. This funding will support her investigation into the cell and molecular basis of this kidney disease.
The Rutgers University Cell and DNA Repository has received two major NIH awards to support investigations into the genetics of mental disorders, metabolic diseases, and digestive health. The funds will enable researchers to study the genetic causes of complex diseases such as autism, bipolar disorder, and diabetes.
TheVisualMD.com offers interactive 3D visualizations of the cardiovascular system and various disease states. The platform provides a rich visual experience for professionals and patients to increase understanding and compliance.
A study found that hospitalized patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at higher risk of experiencing adverse consequences of medical care. CKD patients were more likely to experience complications such as infections, respiratory failure, and post-operative hip fractures.
The American Society of Nephrology discusses the merits of using eGFR for early detection and treatment of CKD, highlighting concerns about misclassification and universal screening. Experts emphasize the need for education and proper use of eGFR to ensure accurate diagnosis and management.
A study found that high levels of alkaline phosphatase, a marker of bone disease, are associated with an increased risk of death in dialysis patients. Patients with elevated alkaline phosphatase levels were 25% more likely to die over a three-year period.
A study found that patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were less likely to use recommended medications after a heart attack, but 1-year adherence rates were similar for both groups. Rates of medication use varied significantly among different types of drugs.
Researchers found that consistently controlling parathyroid hormone, calcium, and phosphorous levels can prolong the lives of hemodialysis patients. Meeting multiple targets simultaneously was associated with improved survival rates, with a 51% higher risk of death for those who failed to meet any targets.
A cohort of half a million patients in Taiwan found that chronic kidney disease has a high prevalence and associated all-cause mortality, especially in low socioeconomic status groups. CKD is treatable and preventable at earlier stages, but awareness and treatment are often lacking globally.
A study by Drs. Seungho Ryu and Yoosoo Chang found that healthy individuals who gain weight, even up to a normal BMI, are at increased risk for developing chronic kidney disease. The U-shaped association between weight change and CKD development suggests that both significant weight loss and gain pose risks.
A study found that CKD patients have mild reductions in thyroid function, which may be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and progressive kidney disease. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism increased with declining kidney function.
A study found that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is linked to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in type 2 diabetes patients. NAFLD was associated with a 69% higher risk of CKD compared to those without the condition.
A study found that black patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have a higher risk of dying in the early stages of the disease compared to white patients. The disparities are attributed to sociological factors, including poverty and access-to-care, rather than biological differences.
Patients with systolic dysfunction are nearly twice as likely to die than those without the condition, according to a study analyzing 2,718 kidney transplant candidates. This increased mortality risk is similar to that seen in patients with cardiac ischemia.
A study found that activated vitamin D may reduce the risk of death by approximately one-fourth in patients with CKD, with a 20% reduction in the risk of either death or dialysis
Research by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that African-American patients with chronic kidney disease continue to lose kidney function despite strict blood pressure control. The study suggests that treating CKD in this population may require a more comprehensive approach, considering other factors beyond just blood pressure.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine found that low levels of adiponectin, a hormone produced by fat cells, are linked to elevated albumin protein in the urine and increased inflammation in the kidney. The study suggests that supplementing with adiponectin or other therapies may help protect kidney function in obese patients.
Researchers found that higher creatinine levels in black patients with kidney disease cannot be explained by differences in muscle mass. The study suggests new theories are needed to account for the racial difference, which could help explain why blacks are more affected by progressive chronic kidney disease.
A study published in the Journal of the American Society Nephrology found that raloxifene increases bone mineral density and reduces vertebral fractures in postmenopausal women with mild to moderate chronic kidney disease. The medication is safe and effective for this patient population, reversing bone loss and fracture risk.
A study found that elevated uric acid levels can precede significant changes in urine albumin levels, suggesting a potential early sign of diabetic kidney disease. Higher uric acid levels are associated with lower kidney function in patients with type 1 diabetes.
Two studies suggest that universal access to healthcare can reduce racial and ethnic barriers to treatment for kidney disease. Minority patients and those on Medicare or with less education had longer dialysis times before being wait-listed, highlighting the need for improved insurance coverage.
Researchers found that a protein called hypoxia-inducible-factor (HIF-1) promotes the synthesis of fibrous connective tissue in kidneys, leading to reduced oxygenation and progression of chronic kidney disease. The study used mice with silenced HIF-1a to demonstrate the link between low oxygen conditions and CKD.
Researchers predict a sharp increase in the US ESRD population by 2020, with over 785,000 patients expected to be affected. The study attributes this growth to the aging of Baby Boomers and rising diabetes rates.
Renal experts will discuss link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and CVD, consequences of acute kidney injury, racial disparities in kidney disease outcomes, and treatment of anemia in kidney patients. The ASN's Public Policy News Briefing aims to improve health outcomes by highlighting significant research impacting public health.
Research suggests that frequent nocturnal hemodialysis can reduce the need for blood pressure medications and improve quality of life measures. However, it did not show benefits in anemia management. The study found reduced left ventricular hypertrophy and improved mineral metabolism.