The UK's National Health Service (NHS) has introduced a genetic test aimed at minimising the risk of kidney failure in donors, with a particular focus on those of Black African and Black Caribbean descent.
The test is a component of the national genetic programme provided by the NHS aimed at determining whether prospective donors possess genetic markers that indicate an elevated risk of developing kidney disease following donation.
Approximately 160 tests are set to be conducted annually by the NHS to screen for 'high-risk' variants of the apolipoprotein L1 gene (APOL1).
Individuals under 60 years of age who are found to be at high risk will be advised against kidney donation.
The test claims to offer data on donor suitability and help prevent kidney disease, particularly among people of this heritage.
Individuals identified as having a higher risk of kidney disease will receive regular monitoring and kidney check-ups. They will also be advised on lifestyle and dietary changes that can mitigate the risk of developing the disease in the future.
This initiative is part of the NHS' broader efforts to integrate genomics into healthcare and address health disparities among diverse communities.
An estimated 500 tests are to be carried out over the coming three years.
Samples will be analysed at Genomic Laboratory Hubs in the South West and South East.
Availability of the test nationally follows a request by the Kidney Disease Health Integration Team at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust, members of Bristol Health Partners.
NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard said: “This is just the latest example of how the NHS is harnessing the full force of genomic medicine to prevent future ill health, improve the lives of patients and, at the same time, to address healthcare inequalities to improve the lives of all NHS patients.”
In November last year, the NHS announced plans to expand the use of ‘advanced’ eye scans beyond hospital settings for diabetes patients, aiming to prevent sight loss.
