NHS to offer genetic risk screening test to potential kidney donors

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The National Health Service (NHS) England announced that it will offer potential kidney donors of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage a test to screen for genetic variants that increase the risk of kidney failure.

The test can help identify if potential donors carry certain variants of a gene known as APOL1, which are more common in people of Black African and Black Caribbean ancestry. These APOL1 variants increase the risk of kidney disease following donation.

In a statement, the NHS noted that the testing program, which is now available throughout the country, will not only aid in assessing donor candidate suitability but also help those at higher risk reduce their chances of developing kidney disease. People who have the APOL1 variants associated with a higher risk of kidney disease will be offered regular kidney monitoring, as well as diet and lifestyle advice, to mitigate their risk.

The NHS said that around 1,000 people annually donate one of their kidneys to someone with kidney failure in the United Kingdom. Moreover, those with both parents of Black African and/or Black Caribbean heritage are more likely than others to develop kidney failure, as well as to need a transplant. Approximately 3 out of 5 who inherit two of the high-risk gene variants develop kidney disease.

The testing program is part of the NHS' initiative to expand the use of genetic testing, with a particular focus on employing genomics to serve the healthcare needs of diverse communities and reduce disparities in care.

The NHS said that it anticipates that it will perform approximately 160 tests annually, or about 500 tests over the next three years. Samples are analyzed at the South West and South East Genomic Laboratory Hubs, the NHS added.

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