Diabetes Is the No. 1 Cause of Kidney Failure

      (NUISM) - The renewed focus on finding a cure for diabetes is applauded by many in the medical community, especially by nephrologists -; doctors who specialize in the treatment of kidney disease.

      Diabetes is the No. 1 cause of kidney failure in the United States, accounting for more than 40 percent of new cases of end-stage renal disease (ESRD), or total kidney failure, each year. People with ESRD require regular dialysis or a kidney transplant to stay alive.

      The links between diabetes and kidney failure are not new, but as the incidence of diabetes increases, the number of ESRD cases also has increased dramatically.

      Each year, 120,000 Americans permanently lose their kidney function as a result of diabetes.

      These alarming numbers are cause for concern to members of the American Society of Nephrology (ASN), a not-for-profit organization of physicians and researchers that specialize in kidney diseases.

      Scientists know that high levels of blood sugar and hypertension (high blood pressure) increase the risk of people with diabetes developing ESRD. Hypertension is a particularly dangerous complication of diabetes because the regulation of blood pressure is a key function of the kidney.

      As hypertension progresses and damages the kidneys, the organs are less able to do the job of controlling blood pressure, triggering a dangerous cycle ending in severe kidney damage.

      "People with diabetes need to be alert to the risk their condition poses to their kidneys," says ASN President William M. Bennett, M.D. "Early detection of kidney disease and treatment of hypertension are essential for diabetics."

      In consultation with your doctor, there is much you can do to keep your kidneys healthy.

      A variety of drugs are available to lower blood pressure, thereby slowing the progression of kidney disease.

      In most diabetics, intensive management of normal blood sugar levels can be of great benefit to long-term kidney health. For some, a low protien diet may be advisable.

      If you have diabetes, be aware of the associated risk to your kidneys. Have your blood pressure checked regularly and follow your doctor''s advice regarding your diabetes regimen. For more information on kidney disease, visit the ASN Web site at www.asn-online.com.

     

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