The Burden of Chronic Kidney Disease

Aim

Population surveys suggest that 1 in 7 Australian adults have evidence of early chronic kidney disease (CKD). This may progress to severe CKD requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant and has been shown to increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Yet relatively simple interventions during the early stages of disease might slow CKD progression and significantly reduce associated cardiovascular disease.

This study examined cost-effective approaches to the delivery of dialysis and transplant services and assessed the likely cost-effectiveness of screening and intervention in CKD.

Methods

This study addressed:

  • the impact of improved treatment on CKD outcomes and costs of intervention programs
  • the costs of provision of dialysis and kidney transplantation, and
  • the effect of changing renal replacement therapy modality utilisation and organ donation practices.

Economic models were constructed based on best available published evidence regarding costs and efficacy of proposed interventions

Status/Results

The first report of the KHA commissioned 'Study of the Economic Impact of the Burden of Kidney and Urinary Tract Disease in Australia', detailing the economic impact of end-stage kidney disease in Australia, was released by KHA in April 2006:

Cass A, Chadban S, Craig J, Howard K, McDonald S, Salkeld G, White S. The Economic Impact of End-Stage Kidney Disease in Australia: Part 1 of the 'Study of The Economic Impact of The Burden of Kidney and Urinary Tract Disease in Australia'. Report to Kidney Health, Australia; April 2006. [report available from Kidney Health Australia]

The second report, which explores the cost-effectiveness of a control strategy for chronic kidney disease of screening and intensive management of diabetes, high blood pressure and urinary protein, was released in October 2006 and is also available on the Kidney Health Australia website:

Howard K, Salkeld G, White S, Chadban S, Craig J, McDonald S, Perkovic V, Cass A. Cost-Effectiveness of Early Detection and Intervention to Prevent Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease in Australia: Part II of the ‘Study of The Economic Impact of The Burden of Kidney and Urinary Tract Disease in Australia’. Report to Kidney Health Australia; October 2006. [report available from Kidney Health Australia]

Institute Investigators

Collaboration

Funding Agencies