Dr. Andres Serrano is a nephrologist, also known as a kidney specialist, who works at Sinai Chicago. He specializes in helping his patients find ways to prevent kidney disease and treating others who may have been diagnosed with kidney problems.
Dr. Serrano spoke with rolling out about how kidney issues affect the Black community and how to reduce the risk of developing disease.
What are common kidney issues that affect the Black community?
The Black community, in general, is frequently affected by common diseases like hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Like other chronic conditions, they don’t often exhibit many symptoms, which means they don’t receive the necessary treatment or attention. Eventually, the kidneys become affected, leading to end-stage renal disease and requiring dialysis. Other factors affecting the Black community are mainly related to access to care. Historically, Black communities are situated in areas where access to care is limited by factors such as a lack of hospitals and clinics. This affects how patients are diagnosed and subsequently contributes to chronic conditions like kidney disease.
What measures can we take to maintain our kidney health and reduce the risk of developing kidney disease?
It’s crucial for patients to realize that kidney disease is prevalent among the Black community. It’s also important to be aware of any family members with kidney disease, as having a family history increases the risk. If there are risk factors, such as family history of kidney disease, hypertension, or diabetes, individuals should seek medical attention. Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician for periodic check-ups is essential for evaluating hypertension and diabetes. Those with multiple risk factors should also undergo screening for kidney disease. The key is awareness, especially for Black patients, who are at a higher risk, prompting them to seek screening from their primary care provider.
What should a patient do when they’re diagnosed with kidney disease?
Early intervention upon diagnosis of kidney disease significantly impacts its progression. It’s crucial to control any underlying medical issues that contributed to the kidney disease. This includes maintaining proper blood pressure and diabetes management. Lifestyle modifications are also essential, such as reducing salt intake and avoiding medications or substances that can harm the kidneys.
