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Diabetes: Simple Tests Detect Silent Kidney Damage
9 Oct
Summary
- Two simple tests can detect silent kidney damage from diabetes early.
- UACR and eGFR tests are recommended annually for diabetic patients.
- Early detection of diabetic kidney disease is crucial, even without symptoms.
Diabetic kidney damage often progresses silently, but timely detection is possible through two straightforward tests. Doctors emphasize the annual importance of the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
These tests help identify protein leakage in urine and assess kidney filtration efficiency, respectively. According to guidelines, individuals with type 2 diabetes should undergo these screenings yearly, while those with type 1 diabetes should begin testing five years post-diagnosis and continue annually. Early intervention is critical, as the disease can advance without noticeable symptoms like swelling or changes in urination.
Managing blood sugar and blood pressure, avoiding nephrotoxic medications, and utilizing kidney-protective therapies are also crucial for preserving kidney health in diabetic patients. These recommendations were highlighted at a conference organized by the UP Diabetes Association.
