Researchers at the University of Bristol in the UK have published results from the Prepare for Kidney Trial, which aimed to assess the relative effectiveness of preparing for conservative kidney management (also known as active medical care without dialysis) and preparing for renal dialysis. Dr. Fergus Caskey was the study lead. Dr. Caskey is also supporting the ExPAND Project, which is led by the Coalition's Dr. Dale Lupu and Dr. Alvin "Woody" Moss.
In a press release regarding the results of the Prepare for Kidney Trial, Dr. Caskey states:
"Our findings could have global implications for how kidney failure is discussed and managed in older patients living with multiple health conditions or frailty. Conservative kidney management is an active treatment that does not include dialysis. It is increasingly recognised around the world, but until now there has been limited evidence to compare both approaches."
"This trial establishes that if you are an older person with failing kidneys and other health problems, both preparing for dialysis and conservative kidney management are worth considering. Both have pros and cons. They result in similar overall length and quality of life. Neither should be the default."
Watch an explanatory video about the study
View the study results in The Lancet