Renal or Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition that affects the kidneys. It can develop over time and may involve damage or abnormality in both kidneys. The signs for CKD can often be found in the blood, urine or in x-rays or scans.

How does CKD affect patients?

CKD may stop the kidney from working. At its mildest it can be very difficult to detect. For most people with CKD the main risk is cardiovascular disease, which affects the heart. Some people can go on to develop established renal failure (ERF). ERF is treated by dialysis or a kidney transplant. If it's left untreated it is fatal.

What is the PCT doing for renal patients?

Locally we have a renal strategic planning group. The group is made up of members of the PCT, local hospital services (The Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust) and specialist services provided by Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust.

They are looking at local renal services and how they can be improved, in line with the guidance in the National Service Framework for renal services.

We hope to be able to provide you with an update of the group's work in the near future.