Highlights•Older adults are the fastest growing population with end-stage renal disease in the U.S.•The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has released an educational video for medical professionals and key information for older patients
60 million people globally have chronic kidney disease
Newswise — Washington, DC (March 13, 2014) — The American Society of Nephrology (ASN) has released new educational materials highlighting the importance of kidney health in older individuals, the fastest growing group of Americans with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
“This growing population of patients with kidney disease often requires special attention,” said ASN President Sharon M. Moe, MD, FASN. “ASN is honored to recognize World Kidney Day 2014 by helping its members focus on the needs of older adults with kidney disease.”
The ASN video (http://asn.kdny.info/uwgU4) features Deidra C. Crews, MD, FASN, an Assistant Professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and member of the ASN Chronic Kidney Disease Advisory Group. She emphasizes the essential role that primary care providers play in protecting and maintaining kidney health in older adults and in working with nephrologists when appropriate. She also highlights how the contributions of nephrologists and primary care providers mesh to help older patients manage their care.
One of the reasons World Kidney Day focuses on older adults is that distinguishing clinically significant CKD from a normal decline in kidney function related to aging is an important aspect of caring for older adults. Dr. Crews also emphasizes that kidney disease places people at risk for other conditions—such as heart disease—even if they are not facing kidney failure.
In addition, the ASN Geriatric Nephrology Advisory Group has released a brief guide to highlight the World Kidney Day theme regarding what older adults diagnosed with kidney disease need to know about the basics of chronic kidney disease and aging, available at http://asn.kdny.info/uwhvj. This Q & A helps inform them about ways to maintain kidney health and explain the available treatment options.
ASN does not offer medical advice. All content in ASN publications is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This content should not be used during a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Please consult your doctor or other qualified health care provider if you have any questions about a medical condition, or before taking any drug, changing your diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment. Do not ignore or delay obtaining professional medical advice because of information accessed through ASN. Call 911 or your doctor for all medical emergencies.
Founded in 1966, and with nearly 15,000 members, the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) leads the fight against kidney disease by educating health professionals, sharing new knowledge, advancing research, and advocating the highest quality care for patients.
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