Nephrology
Chronic kidney disease: the silent condition worth screening for
· Dr James Tataw Ashu · Medically reviewed
Kidney disease often causes no symptoms until late; two inexpensive tests identify most cases early.
Chronic kidney disease progresses quietly. Many patients feel entirely well until kidney function has fallen substantially, which is precisely why screening in at-risk groups matters.
The highest-risk groups are people with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, a family history of kidney failure, and those of African descent, in whom certain genetic factors increase susceptibility.
Two tests do most of the work: serum creatinine with an estimated glomerular filtration rate, and a urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Together they detect both reduced function and early kidney damage.
Early detection changes outcomes. Blood pressure control, careful use of medicines that affect the kidney, glycaemic control and newer agents that protect kidney function can slow or stabilise progression.
In much of central Africa, dialysis capacity is limited and expensive, which makes prevention and early treatment not only a clinical priority but an economic one.
This article is general education. It does not constitute individual medical advice and does not create a doctor–patient relationship. For emergencies, contact the emergency services in your current location.
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