Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP)
Welcome to the KEEP page. Please follow the links below for more information:
Click here for 'About the Programme'
Click here for 'Frequently Asked Questions'
Click here for 'Screening Sessions'
Click here for 'KEEP in the News'
* What is the Kidney Early Evaluation Programme (KEEP)?
The Kidney Early Evaluation Programme is a trial screening programme based on an initiative developed by the National Kidney Foundation in the US where more than 100,000 people have been screened. The programme is being run with support from pharmaceutical companies Roche and Amgen and is taking place in Oldham, Birmingham, Leicester and London. It is anticipated that more than 2000 people will be screened, targeting groups of adults who are at increased risk of chronic kidney disease, including:
* African Caribbeans
* South Asians
* people with diabetes
* people with hypertension
* those with a family history of kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is difficult to detect early, as sufferers often display no symptoms, although people with high blood pressure (hypertension), diabetes and certain ethnic groups have a higher risk of the disease. Early detection however can have a significant impact on patient outcomes because blood pressure treatment and changes in lifestyle can slow down the progression of the disease thus delaying the need for dialysis or transplantation.
With early detection and prevention targeting high-risk groups, people with CKD can be identified before they reach a critical stage and can be shown how to manage the condition with medication and lifestyle changes.
The screening programme is in line with Prime Minister Gordon Brown’s stated intention (January 2008) to increase preventative medicine and screening for early signs of the diseases which are common, harmful and treatable. If the approach proves successful, it is hoped that it will be rolled out nationally.
* Why is it happening?
Ten percent of adults in the UK have some form of kidney damage yet only three percent have been identified, which means that at least five percent of the estimated sufferers are unidentified and unaware of their condition. Additionally, people who have CKD are at higher risk of related conditions such as heart disease and strokes.
Individuals who think they may be at risk should contact their doctor or alternatively contact the Kidney Health Information Line on 0845 300 1499 or email kidneyhealth@kidneyresearchuk.org.
* Who can take part?
All participants must be over 18 and fall into one of the following groups:
* Black African Caribbean
* First Degree relative with diagnosed chronic kidney disease
* Not seen a doctor for 3 years
Participants are free to withdraw from the trial at any point without need to give reason.
* What happens at the Screening Event?
There are six stages to the screening process which are shown below. Participants register and complete a screening questionnaire. Height, weight and blood pressure will be taken. Participants will then have blood and urine tests. Blood samples will be taken by a trained staff member. All participants will have an opportunity to speak to a doctor about their results (note that blood test results will not be available on the day but will be sent out approximately 2 weeks later).
If participants have given permission, results will also be sent to their doctor.
The screening process takes approximately 1 hour.
1. Registration
2. Screening questionnaire
3. Height, weight and blood pressure
4. Blood and urine tests
5. Brief consultation with a healthcare professional
6. Paperwork check
* How can I participate
If you are interested then please contact us on contact the Kidney Health Information Line on the details below:
E-Mail: kidneyhealth@kidneyresearchuk.org
Tel: 0845 300 1499
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Frequently Asked Questions
If I attend the Screening Session do I have to take part in the whole session?
Participation in this study, like all other research studies is entirely voluntary. Participants are under no obligation to participate and are still free to withdraw at any time and without giving reason.
Will I be entitled to any expenses or payments?
Participation is free. Unfortunately we are unable to offer compensation for expenses.
What do I have to do?
Attend for a single visit to the screening centre as described above.
What happens if my results are abnormal?
Kidney disease can be detected by similar tests arranged by your general practitioner (GP). With your permission, a copy of your results will be sent to your GP. You should discuss any abnormal results with your doctor and agree a management plan.
Information materials will also be available on the day.
What are the side effects of any treatment received when taking part?
Some people experience dizziness or nausea when having blood taken. There may also be some minor discomfort when blood is taken.
What are the possible benefits of taking part?
Your results may indicate that you have some kidney damage or are at risk of kidney disease. Early detection may prevent or delay the onset of kidney disease or kidney failure through education and appropriate disease management.
What happens when the research study stops?
We will analyse the results of this study to help us decide whether this service should be offered to more people in the UK. The results may be published in scientific journals but you will not be identified in any such publication.
Will my taking part in the study be kept confidential?
Yes. All the information about your participation in this study will be kept confidential. With your permission, your results will be sent to your doctor.
Study data will be made available to some organisations and may be published in scientific journals but no individuals will be identified.
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Screening Sessions
Sessions are being scheduled. If you would like to find out about a session please contact the Kidney Health Information Line on the information below:
E-Mail: kidneyhealth@kidneyresearchuk.org
Tel: 0845 300 14 99
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KEEP in the News
Please selcet a link below to find more information about KEEP:
Click here for GALIQ
Click here for Realwire
Click here for BBC News Online
Click here for Spaghetti Gazetti Blog
Click here for Another Blog
Click here for Search by Headlines
