Latest news with #ChronicKidneyDisease
Cision Canada
a day ago
- Health
- Cision Canada
Saskatchewan Blue Cross supports high-risk communities with $50,000 for equipment for screening chronic kidney disease
SASKATOON, SK , July 28, 2025 /CNW/ - In Saskatchewan, ten per cent of the population lives with a form of kidney disease. Over the last ten years, the number of individuals with kidney disease requiring dialysis has increased by 50 per cent. Chronic Kidney Disease, or CKD, is frequently called the "silent killer", as it can progress without obvious symptoms until it's too late. Individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney failure must visit a dialysis centre three to four times a week, with each visit lasting up to four hours until transplant or end of life. For a family near a city centre, this unrelenting schedule can be challenging. For families in rural Saskatchewan, the diagnosis can be devastating – often resulting in hours of travel or having to leave their communities to be closer to care. Those residing in Northern Saskatchewan are uniquely susceptible to CKD, with access to care and the genetic predisposition of the disease among Indigenous peoples being distressing factors in the increased rate of CKD. The disease also increases the risk of other life-threatening conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and limb amputations. Through a shared vision with the Ministry of Health and the Saskatchewan Health Authority, St. Paul's Hospital Foundation are working together on prevention and early treatment with the By Your Side Kidney Care Campaign. The campaign supports better patient-centred modalities of care that improve their experience, autonomy and outcomes during treatment. This includes new programs, centres and support for those at risk or facing CKD. The By Your Side Kidney Care Campaign is a critical initiative to change these devastating, preventable outcomes. Its three priorities are access to care and education, holistic care and proactive prevention. The main priority is the Early Screening Program, which provides individuals, particularly in high-risk communities, with access to early detection and education. "At Saskatchewan Blue Cross, we believe access to early detection and education can change lives," said Kelly Wilson, President and CEO of Saskatchewan Blue Cross. "Our $50,000 commitment to St. Paul's Hospital Foundation's 'By Your Side Kidney Care Campaign' reflects our dedication to improving health outcomes in Saskatchewan, especially in high-risk and underserved communities. We hope others are equally motivated to support the Early Screening Program for Chronic Kidney Disease, bringing much-needed care and hope to individuals and families across the province." This critical funding from Saskatchewan Blue Cross supports purchasing vital equipment required for screening CKD. It also promotes the gathering of vital data that will help lay the foundation for a sustainable early diagnosis system in at-risk communities. "We are deeply grateful to Saskatchewan Blue Cross for their generous support of the By Your Side Kidney Health Campaign and the Early Screening Program," said Lecina Hicke, CEO of St. Paul's Hospital Foundation. "Their partnership is helping to close critical gaps in care by creating access to early detection and education in underserved and remote communities. Together, we are working to build a stronger, more equitable healthcare system that ensures everyone has access to the care they need, when they need it most." The equipment is just the beginning. St. Paul's Hospital Foundation is committed to raising $10 million for the By Your Side Kidney Care Campaign. Their hope is to create patient-centred and holistic health initiatives that save lives, while reducing the economic and social impacts of early-onset kidney failure. Learn more about the campaign and donate by visiting the St. Paul's Hospital Foundation website
The Hindu
2 days ago
- Health
- The Hindu
Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam, beneficial to lowest income groups, has severe lacunae in system
A bed-ridden former ward member's wife S. Vasanthi, 70, of Sakkimangalam, a Narikuravar community habitat in Madurai east taluk, lives on the diabetic medicines supplied by the Women Health Volunteers (WHVs) of Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam (MTM), a novel initiative of the Tamil Nadu government. For the widow, who lives in a shanty house made of plastic and torn bedsheets, if not for the two-months of medicines supply by MTM volunteers, her sugar level would shoot up endangering her life. The MTM scheme has saved her life and penny; however, it has failed to identify any new diabetic person in the same locality. Chinapaapa, 75, who lives alone in her hut in the same locality, says she was not tested nor has any health volunteer visited her to identify any health problems. Her other neighbours, recollecting a health camp which was arranged at the village mid-point near a ration shop about a year ago, say they could not walk up to the camp as most of them were not informed or alerted earlier. The prime aim of the MTM scheme started in 2021 was to enable home-based screening and drug delivery at the doorsteps of beneficiaries. Though the scheme through its 20,000 workforce reportedly reached 5.50 crore individuals through screening - one crore first-time beneficiaries and 3.20 crore repeat - service beneficiaries – the actual follow-ups would be lesser, as per World Health Organization (WHO) data. By focusing on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, high blood pressure, psychological problems, mouth and breast cancer, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), the WHV, under the scheme, were mandated to visit every household falling under their jurisdiction and carry out the tests required for identification. According to the Tamil Nadu State Planning Commission's survey report on the MTM scheme, the scheme has halved the out-of-pocket medical expenditure for the lowest income groups. The report added, 'Before the scheme started operating, the poorest income group in the survey had to spend over 10% of their monthly family income on treatment of diabetes and hypertension. Once the scheme rolled out, spending on the treatment has more than halved.' Though the scheme has recorded remarkable achievements like bringing the low-income population with diabetes and hypertension under the ambit of government record, keeping them in the government medication records, slowdown of the works owing to insufficient volunteers and irregular medicine supply have derailed the system in certain areas, if not all. A WHV at Keelavalavu, requesting anonymity, pointed out the practical difficulties in achieving the assigned duty like dispensing hypertension, diabetes and other essential medications in colour coded paper bags and checking BP and blood glucose at the time of drug delivery at the households. 'Many a times, due to the workload coupled with the absence of essential drugs and devices, people will be asked to visit nearby health centres like PHC, Health Sub-Centre or Community Health Centre for getting their monthly medical supply and routine check-up,' she adds. Barring a few, many fail to visit the hospital due to several reasons, she notes. A differently abled person named R. Rajasekar, residing in Malaipatti panchayat, falling under Madurai West Panchayat Union, says that a year ago, a medical camp was conducted near his village and he too took the test and learnt that he had diabetes at its initial stage. 'Tablets were given, and I was given diet instructions to keep the blood glucose level under control. I also receive the monthly tablets through a volunteer or a neighbour, who visits the nearby hospital for their routine check up,' he adds. As the volunteers would not visit his house for monthly check-up and he would be asked to visit the hospital, he has not undergone the blood glucose level test for more than a year, he says. It is the lacuna in the system that obstructs the otherwise achievable result of the scheme, says a PHC doctor near Melur. The ground-level difficulties for the WHVs, who are paid close to ₹5,000 per month, were that they would be asked to screen at least 50 people per day in their region, the doctor adds. 'In addition to screening, they should also update their data and deliver medicines according to the public needs every day. This much is expected from the volunteers with just a bare minimum payment,' the doctor states. Resonating with the doctor, the Keelavalavu WHV says, at times when the device to screen patients gets repaired or the battery drains off, they had to spend their own money to buy new batteries or to repair it. 'As there is no travel allowance, that also goes out of our pockets,' she adds. Moreover, the doctor says that the on-ground issues like non-availability of the working population in the households and unavailability of men in houses for screening or periodical checking leave them out of the cycle. An interim report of the State government intended to address the gaps specified carrying out campaign mode of screening for early detection and increased screening in the industries through collaboration with labour department to cover the working population, the doctor notes. Such far-reaching aims of the scheme, in the absence of a vigorous working plan and scheduled supply of medicines and equipment, cannot be achieved, the doctor observes. A. Veronica Mary, a health activist based in Madurai, says: 'Though the scheme gives a perception that it is a success, it could only be for a short term.' 'Our State's rural health system, which is structured around a network of PHCs, CHCs and hospitals, is already well-connected and is robust enough to cover the villages,' she adds. As the 1,700 plus PHCs and more than 8,500 HSCs in the State were based on the 2011 population census, only doubling it would enhance the overall coverage of healthcare. 'The MTM scheme linked with the PHCs will fail if the PHCs workforce is not enhanced and monitoring is not improved,' she notes. PHCs, which are already reeling under an acute shortage of doctors, nurses and health workers, were additionally burdened with documenting and data recording works. In this situation, MTM scheme may not be successful in a year or so, if the PHCs and CHCs are not strengthened with necessary staff and resources, he notes. 'The government should review its performance and release a white paper on the scheme. Only through it, the reach of the programme could be studied and improved,' Ms. Mary states. Many of the villages and rural households were still untouched by the scheme and covering it all would require self-evaluation and introspection, she adds.
Time of India
18-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
3 times makhana may be bad for you: Nutritionist cautions against the ‘guilt-free' snack
Fox nuts or makhana may seem like a miracle snack, but moderation is key. Nutritionist Nandini Agarwal highlights three scenarios where overindulgence can backfire—chronic constipation, excessive calorie intake while dieting, and complications for those with kidney ailments. Though rich in protein and antioxidants, makhana's dark side proves even healthy snacks need a balanced approach. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads The Constipation Conundrum The Calorie Trap in a Healthy Cloak Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Kidneys and Potassium: A Caution for CKD Patients A Grain of Salt with Every Superfood In the age of kale chips and quinoa bowls, makhana —those light, airy lotus seeds—have become India's answer to guilt-free snacking . Touted for their health benefits and endorsed by fitness influencers and wellness gurus alike, these fox nuts have carved a niche in the ' superfood ' club. But, as it turns out, even the healthiest of snacks come with Nandini Agarwal recently took to Instagram to drop a reel that's stirring up the wellness world. While makhana is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse , Agarwal's reel highlighted that it's not always the best choice for everyone. Her three-point warning isn't a dismissal of makhana's benefits—it's a gentle but timely reminder that 'healthy' isn't always you've been leaning on makhana as your go-to midday snack and have also been noticing trouble in the gut, it might be time to reassess. Agarwal points out that makhana is relatively low in fiber. That means for individuals already dealing with constipation, consuming makhana regularly can worsen the issue. It's ironic, considering how makhana is often grouped with other fiber-rich snacks—but in reality, it's the texture, not the fiber, that fools many into thinking it's good for her reel, Agarwal advises, 'Under constipation, these nuts do not have too much fiber and can cause more constipation.' So, while makhana may seem light and digestible, it doesn't do much for keeping your digestive tract moving—something worth noting before your next weight loss regimes in full swing on social media, makhana has become a darling of the diet world. Roasted, spiced, and presented as a 'binge-worthy' alternative to chips, it feels harmless. But as Agarwal notes, 'If you're trying to lose weight then 100 grams of makhana is still okay—but if you're overdoing it, it is definitely not okay.' The reason? Makhana, though low in fat, contains considerable carbohydrates. Eat too much, and those calories stack up faster than you'd other words, just because it's not deep-fried doesn't mean it's diet-proof. Mindful munching is key—even with the healthiest of the most critical warning Agarwal gives is for those with kidney issues or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Makhana is naturally high in potassium—a mineral often restricted in low-potassium renal diets. 'If you have kidney issues or CKD and you are on a low potassium diet, then you should definitely avoid eating makhanas totally,' she third reason is a vital reminder that what's good for one body might not suit another. In such cases, consulting a healthcare professional before adopting trendy dietary habits becomes makhana remains a versatile and nutrient-rich snack—high in protein, antioxidants, and minerals—it's important to remember that even superfoods have their shadows. Nandini Agarwal's Instagram reel doesn't vilify makhana, but rather humanizes it in a world where nutrition is too often reduced to black-and-white labels.
News18
17-07-2025
- Health
- News18
High Protein In Urine: Is It Time To Screen For Chronic Kidney Disease?
Last Updated: Chronic Kidney Disease can move silently with little to no symptoms until months or even years One of the most common red flag that doctors look out for is the presence of protein in the urine, as this could significantly deteriorate the kidneys. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive illness that frequently goes unrecognized until significant kidney damage has already occurred. The Lancet states that CKD is present in approximately 10% of the adult population globally. Moreover, its incidence is on the rise due to the increasing rates of diabetes, hypertension, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. The effective way to manage CKD is through early detection and intervention. Dr Nitin Shrivastava, Lead Consultant, Urologist, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram shares all you need to know: What does protein in the urine indicate? The presence of high levels of protein in the urine indicates the chances are that the kidneys are not functioning as well as they should. This is because protein and other important nutrients are easily able to pass through healthy kidneys and ultimately return to the blood. On the other hand, proteins like albumin leak through the kidney's filters and into the urine in case of dysfunction which is referred to as proteinuria or albuminuria and is among the first and most common signs of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Other symptoms that may imply that the kidneys are not functioning properly include: ● Loss of appetite: Sudden or rapid weight loss without explanation can be attributed to the buildup of toxins in the body that the kidneys can no longer filter. ● Fatigue: Patients may experience a high level of fatigue or weakness and may even have difficulty sleeping. Cramping of muscles is also a common symptom. ● Changes in urination: Frequent urination or a reduced urge to urinate can both be pointing towards damaged kidney function and are often the earliest signs of trouble. It is typically at this stage that individuals decide to go for CKD screening. ● High blood pressure: Chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes put individuals more at risk of developing kidney disorders. Additionally, impaired kidney function can make it difficult to keep blood pressure under control. ● Swelling in feet and ankles: The inability of kidneys to filter out excess fluid leads to retention, which develops as visible puffiness in the lower limbs. Why does early screening matter? Chronic Kidney Disease can move silently with little to no symptoms until months or even years. When individuals finally get tested, the kidneys have already been damaged significantly. In advanced stages, dialysis or a complete kidney transplantation (KTP) are needed to restore function. This involves surgically placing a healthy kidney from a living or deceased donor into the patient's body, offering a more permanent and effective solution in case of kidney failure. The presence of protein in urine should never be ignored, as it may be the body's earliest warning of silent but progressive kidney damage. However, Regular screening is even more important for individuals with obesity, diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease. A simple urine testing can become a life-saving intervention if timely action is taken to prevent further complications. view comments First Published: July 17, 2025, 18:11 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Wire
16-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Revelation Biosciences Inc. Completes Dosing of Patients in PRIME Study
SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Revelation Biosciences, Inc. (NASDAQ: REVB) (the 'Company' or 'Revelation'), a clinical-stage life sciences company focused on rebalancing inflammation to optimize health, today announced dosing has been completed for the PRIME (PReconditioning IMmunostimulatory Evaluation) Phase 1b clinical study of escalating doses of intravenously administered Gemini in patients with Stage 3 and 4 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). As planned, a total of 5 cohorts were enrolled at 3 clinics in the United States. Several study data sets are expected during Q3 2025: these will include safety parameters, changes in hematologic parameters, in vitro evaluation of the inflammatory response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from study participants, and multiple biomarkers of activity. 'We thank our Investigators and participants for the rapid completion of dosing,' said James Rolke, Chief Executive Officer of Revelation. 'We are looking forward to sharing the study data shortly, and engaging the FDA to discuss future clinical development and approval pathways later this year.' About Gemini Gemini is an intravenously administered, proprietary formulation of phosphorylated hexaacyl disaccharide (PHAD ®) that reduces the damage associated with inflammation by reprograming the innate immune system to respond to stress (trauma, infection, etc.) in an attenuated manner. Gemini is being developed for multiple indications including as a pretreatment to prevent or reduce the severity and duration of acute kidney injury (GEMINI-AKI program), and as pretreatment to prevent or reduce the severity and duration of post-surgical infection (GEMINI-PSI program), or infection post severe burn (GEMINI-PBI). Gemini may also be a treatment to stop or slow the progression of chronic kidney disease (GEMINI-CKD program). Revelation has conducted multiple preclinical studies demonstrating the therapeutic potential of Gemini in the target indications. Revelation previously announced positive Phase 1 clinical data for intravenous treatment with Gemini: the primary safety endpoint was met in the Phase 1 study, and results demonstrated statistically significant pharmacodynamic activity, as observed through expected changes in multiple biomarkers including upregulation of IL-10. About CKD Chronic kidney disease is a pervasive problem in the United States and world-wide. CKD is caused by chronic inflammation and can be initiated and propagated in several ways. One prevalent condition is the high blood sugar levels associated with diabetes (either Type 1 or Type 2): high blood sugar is toxic to kidney cells – it creates stress, which imitates the inflammatory process, leading to the demise of these cells with subsequent fibrosis, ultimately resulting in continuous loss of kidney function over time. High arterial blood pressure is another source of stress that initiates the inflammatory process that results in CKD. Other risk factors include heart disease, obesity, family history of CKD, or advanced age. Progression of chronic kidney damage often leads to end stage renal disease with the need for renal replacement therapy (dialysis or transplantation), resulting in significant morbidity and mortality for affected patients. Kidney disease is a leading cause of death in the United States. About AKI AKI, also known as acute renal failure, is a rapid loss of kidney function. AKI causes a build-up of waste products in the blood, making it more difficult for kidneys to maintain the correct balance of fluid in the body. AKI can also have a significant impact on other organs, such as the brain, the heart, and the lungs. About Revelation Biosciences, Inc. Revelation Biosciences, Inc. is a clinical-stage life sciences company focused on rebalancing inflammation to optimize health using its proprietary formulation, Gemini. Revelation has multiple ongoing programs to evaluate Gemini, including as a prevention for post-surgical infection, for post-severe burn infection, as a prevention for acute kidney injury, and for the treatment of chronic kidney disease. For more information on Revelation, please visit Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are generally identified by the words "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "estimate", "plan", "outlook", and "project" and other similar expressions. We caution investors that forward-looking statements are based on management's expectations and are only predictions or statements of current expectations and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to be materially different from those anticipated by the forward-looking statements. Revelation cautions readers not to place undue reliance on any such forward looking statements, which speak only as of the date they were made. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in these forward-looking statements: the ability of Revelation to meet its financial and strategic goals, due to, among other things, competition; the ability of Revelation to grow and manage growth profitability and retain its key employees; the possibility that the Revelation may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; risks relating to the successful development of Revelation's product candidates; the ability to successfully complete planned clinical studies of its product candidates; the risk that we may not fully enroll our clinical studies or enrollment will take longer than expected; risks relating to the occurrence of adverse safety events and/or unexpected concerns that may arise from data or analysis from our clinical studies; changes in applicable laws or regulations; expected initiation of the clinical studies, the timing of clinical data; the outcome of the clinical data, including whether the results of such study is positive or whether it can be replicated; the outcome of data collected, including whether the results of such data and/or correlation can be replicated; the timing, costs, conduct and outcome of our other clinical studies; the anticipated treatment of future clinical data by the FDA, the EMA or other regulatory authorities, including whether such data will be sufficient for approval; the success of future development activities for its product candidates; potential indications for which product candidates may be developed; the ability of Revelation to maintain the listing of its securities on NASDAQ; the expected duration over which Revelation's balances will fund its operations; and other risks and uncertainties described herein, as well as those risks and uncertainties discussed from time to time in other reports and other public filings with the SEC by Revelation.
