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A survey of 2,158 kidney patients has suggested that discovering a cure for kidney diseases, prevention, early detection and finding new sources for organ transplants, should be the focus for future renal research.

Conducted in October 2016, this is the third Kidney Research UK nationwide patient survey. Previous surveys were held in 2007 and 2013 and the results from each survey help inform future research priorities for the charity.

The survey was open to all UK kidney patients. It was sent to renal units across the UK and additional patients were invited to complete the survey by email and by using social media channels.

• The survey was completed by people from all four UK countries.
• More women than men completed the survey.
• The largest number of respondents was in the age range of 45-64 years.
• 8% of respondents described their ethnic group as other than white.
• Kidney transplant patients were the largest group of respondents.
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Respondents were asked to choose their top seven priorities out of 20 renal research topics and to rank them according to importance. The results of the 2016 survey indicated change in patient priorities.

• ‘Stem cell research’ and ‘improving methods of transplantation’ moved into the top seven priorities
• Early stage kidney patients tended to prioritise causes of kidney diseases and postponing the need for renal replacement therapy, whilst transplant patients prioritised improving transplantation.
• Younger patients prioritised improving methods of transplantation, whilst, as age increased, the focus changed to early detection and prevention.

Kidney Research UK’s Director of Research, Elaine Davies, said: “Patients are at the heart of our research, and it is by actively engaging and listening that we understand what research matters most to them.

“This survey outcome will influence how we review and set the strategic direction of our future programmes.”