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Detect kidney disease early

Free screening offered in Quesnel at the Seniors' Centre, April 25

In B.C., it’s estimated one in 25 people has kidney disease – and most of them do not even know it.

Early detection of kidney disease can be prevented or minimized through simple changes in diet and lifestyle, or through management and medication.

One of the tools for early detection is being offered in a new innovative targeted screening program offered by the Kidney foundation of Canada, B.C. branch and will be in Quesnel April 25, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at the Seniors’ Centre, pre-registration is required.

This free See KD Targeted screening is recommended for those who fit into the following categories; those with diabetes, high blood pressure, family history of kidney disease, cardio vascular disease and those of Aboriginal, Asian, South Asian, Hispanic or African heritage as well as anyone 55 years and older.

Bonnie Leclerc first experienced kidney disease when she required a kidney transplant in 1989 as a result of being diagnosed with glomerulonephritis.

“Although this test wasn’t available at the time I was diagnosed, it wouldn’t have changed my outcome, but this could certainly prevent or delay someone else’s prognosis,” Leclerc said.

She is hoping many people will take advantage of this opportunity to find out where their kidney function levels are.

During a visit to the screening clinic, individuals will be tested by health care professionals for urinalysis, blood pressure, waist circumference and weight, body mass index, blood glucose and two kidney function tests with the StatSensor machine.

Glucometers are used for blood glucose results and the handheld StatSenor measures creatinine levels and eGRF – the two tests that indicate level of kidney functioning.

Both tests can be done with a single finger prick and results are forthcoming almost immediately.

The StatSensor provides results indicating if the person has kidney function within the normal range or, if the kidney function is compromised at all, a number representing percentage of kidney function remaining is shown.

“My transplanted kidney failed in 2007 and I’m back on dialysis which I wouldn’t wish on anybody, it’s better to find out early and maybe they won’t end up with dialysis,” Leclerc said.

She was told she could still be facing another 4 – 7 year wait for a cadaver transplant.

“This test could possibly identify kidney problems early enough to manage the disease without my scenerio,” Leclerc said.

“For most people who have early diagnosis, successful management is quite possible.”

To register contact Leclerc at 250-992-5122.

“Kidney disease is a silent disease until it’s too late,” Leclerc said.