Guarding the glomerulus: Diabetes and the kidney

A recent survey has highlighted the fact that too many patients with diabetes are missing out on key tests for kidney disease which could influence the way in which they are treated.¹ The survey suggests that over half (54%, n=403) of GPs and nurses who treat patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) do not carry out a vital routine test annually. The urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR or ACR) test is used to detect protein in the urine, indicating kidney damage which can lead to serious and even fatal renal and cardiovascular complications.²

According to survey respondents, the UACR test, is not being carried out as recommended by national guidance³ because many patients are unwilling to provide a urine sample (38%, most frequent reason given by healthcare professionals). General practice nurses (GPNs) are in an ideal position to support people with diabetes to understand the importance of kidney health and the role of this simple test in identifying potential problems early.