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Lack of Routine Screening and GP Ignorance Leaves Public at Risk

New research reveals a lack of routine screening for a protein which can indicate kidney damage could put people at risk.
Health - 11 March 2010   Download IconContent available for download:  
Audio | Interview with transplantee and Chair of The Kidney Alliance, Fiona Loud and Consultant Nephrologist, Dr Richard Fluck| Login to Download

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  News Hooks:

New research reveals that 73% of GPs recognise that blood pressure control is the most important treatment for delaying the progression of diabetic kidney disease but the research also shows that around a quarter of GPs don’t fully understand the link between high blood pressure and kidney disease (although they know it is important to reduce it).

Microalbuminuria (MA) is an indicator of possible kidney damage and a predictor for chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes or with high blood pressure. The test for MA is simple and relatively inexpensive but the research reveals that only 6% of the 2.5 million people with type 2 diabetes are routinely screened for MA.

More experts are now calling for GPs to consider MA testing as just as important as the routine blood test (HBA1c), given to patients with diabetes to monitor glucose control. The Kidney Alliance warns that patients with type two diabetes may be at unnecessary risk of life-limiting complications because of this lack of routine screening.

. Introduction:

This World Kidney Day (11th March) new research revealed that around a quarter of GPs don’t fully understand the link between high blood pressure and kidney disease, although most (73%) are aware that blood pressure is the most important treatment for delaying the progression of diabetic kidney disease. The Kidney Alliance is now calling for more importance to be placed on the test for Microalbuminuria (MA). This test is a good indicator for possible kidney damage and can be used as a predictor for heart attacks and strokes. The test itself is simple and relatively inexpensive but is only routinely screened for in 6% of patients with diabetes, where prevalence can reach 40% compared to 7% of apparently healthy individuals despite the test being effective for all patients.

How can further education help GPs and patients?

Joining us in the studio is transplantee and Chair of The Kidney Alliance, Fiona Loud and Consultant Nephrologist, Dr Richard Fluck.

. Suggested Questions:

What percentage of GPs in our area are not fully aware of the relationship between blood pressure and kidney disease?

Why is this relationship such an important part of healthcare for patients with diabetes?

What is Microalbuminuria and how is it tested?

What are the main reasons that GPs give for not routinely screening high-risk patients?

What impact could increased testing for Microalbuminuria have on high-risk patient groups?

Where can we find out more information?