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Wednesday, 12 March 2025
Professor Stack, Director of the National Kidney Disease Surveillance System (NKDSS) at UL’s School of Medicine and Consultant Nephrologist at University Hospital Limerick, spearheaded the study, which examined data from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA). The findings reveal that one in seven individuals aged 50 and over in Ireland suffers from chronic kidney disease (14.7%), with this figure rising to one in two for those over 75. Notably, women were found to be 50% more likely to develop the condition than men.
The study also underscores the profound impact of socioeconomic factors on kidney health. Medical card holders and unemployed individuals showed significantly higher rates of kidney disease, demonstrating the need for a holistic approach to addressing this public health challenge.
“These new findings, driven by research conducted within the HRI, provide an enormous opportunity for the Irish health service to identify and screen these high-risk groups for early signs of kidney damage,” Professor Stack explained. “Earlier detection of kidney disease will facilitate more timely investigation and treatment, leading to better outcomes. There is a real chance that we can stem the tide of kidney failure and improve patient survival.”
The research, conducted by Dr. Meera Tandan and Dr. Leonard Browne at the NKDSS, also revealed that chronic kidney disease is significantly more common in individuals with pre-existing heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and other chronic conditions. The study further emphasised the importance of considering factors like obesity and social deprivation in developing effective screening strategies.
“The addition of chronic kidney disease to the Chronic Disease Management Programme of the HSE, beginning in July 2025, is a major step forward in improving kidney health in Ireland,” Professor Stack added.
The findings have been welcomed by organisations such as the Irish Kidney Association and the National Renal Office, who have called for the implementation of national screening programmes and the adoption of international resolutions aimed at reducing the burden of kidney disease.
This study, conducted under the leadership of HRI member Professor Austin Stack, reinforces UL’s commitment to impactful research that addresses pressing health challenges and improves the lives of individuals across Ireland.
The full paper is available here.