NHS test for potential kidney donors could help prevent future kidney disease and reduce health inequalities

To help protect those considering becoming kidney donors, the NHS is offering a genetic test to help identify the presence of a gene which increases the risk of kidney disease after donation.

The high-risk gene, known as APOL1, is most common in people of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage. This test will help clinicians find out if potential donors are suitable to donate and help identify any future risk of kidney disease. 

The test was made nationally available after recommendations were made by members of Bristol Health Partners’ Kidney Disease Health Integration Team working at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust. Testing is now available across the country with samples being sent to the South West and South East Genomic Laboratory Hubs for analysis.

After testing for APOL1, those who show high risks of developing kidney failure later in their life, and who are under 60 years old will be advised against kidney donation. They will also be given regular monitoring, kidney check-ups and advice to help reduce their ongoing risk.

This test for potential donors could help prevent future kidney disease and reduce health inequalities among people of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage who are more likely to develop kidney disease. 

Article originally published on: NHS England » NHS rolls out national genetic test to reduce risk of donor kidney failure