Rise in Diabetes-Linked Kidney Disease Deaths in Latin America: A Call for Better Healthcare Access and Early Intervention

The Rising Threat of Diabetes-Associated Kidney Disease in Latin America

A recent study by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has brought to light a worrying trend in Latin America. While overall mortality rates from diabetes in the American continent have remained stable over the past 20 years, Latin American countries have seen an alarming rise in mortality rates from diabetes-associated kidney disease. The study analyzed epidemiological data from 33 countries in the American continent from 2000 to 2019, revealing profound differences in mortality rates between various countries and exposing the urgent need for improvements in diabetes healthcare in the region.

Challenges in Accessing Quality Healthcare

The surge in mortality rates from diabetes-related kidney disease is largely attributed to difficulties in accessing quality healthcare in Latin America. This is concerning, as early diagnosis and intervention are critical in managing and controlling the progression of the disease. Primary healthcare, in particular, plays a vital role in facilitating early diagnoses and effective treatment plans. The analysis further emphasized the need for greater involvement of primary care in Latin America to allow for earlier diagnoses, use of effective medications, and reduce the need for renal replacement therapies.

Disparities in Data Quality and Reporting

One of the challenges acknowledged by the study is the disparity in the quality of data provided by the countries. Underreporting of mortality from type 2 diabetes is much more significant in Latin America, making it difficult to estimate accurate mortality rates. This underlines the need for better data management and reporting practices across the continent.

Implications for Chronic Kidney Disease Research

These findings echo other research highlighting disparities and inequalities in global health, especially in resource-poor regions. For instance, genomic research on chronic kidney disease is significantly imbalanced, with affluent regions being the primary focus. This skewness has implications, including limitations in new variant discovery, inaccurate interpretation of genetic variants, and unequal access to genomic testing and novel therapies in resource-poor regions.

Case Study: Chronic Kidney Disease in a High-Income District

A retrospective epidemiological study conducted in a high-income district in Italy shows that even in affluent regions, there are gaps in healthcare access and management. The study found that 20% of end-stage kidney disease patients did not receive a nephrologist consultation. Older people and women were more likely not to be referred to nephrology clinics, and unfollowed patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease had a significantly higher death rate. This underscores the need for comprehensive healthcare access for all, irrespective of income levels or geographical location.

Moving Forward: The Need for Urgent Measures

In response to the rising threat of diabetes-associated kidney disease, PAHO is implementing the World Health Organization's Global Diabetes Compact to improve diabetes prevention and control. Access to new drugs for clinical practice is also being emphasized to achieve lower cardiovascular mortality and have a nephroprotective profile. However, more needs to be done, particularly in Latin America, to ensure that everyone, irrespective of their socio-economic status, has access to the quality healthcare they need to manage and control their diabetes and associated health complications.