New thesis examines gender differences in chronic kidney disease

What is the main focus of your thesis?

The studies included in this thesis investigate different aspects of chronic kidney disease, specifically differences among men and women in risk of progression to a more advanced kidney disease stage as well as differences in quality of care indicators. Also, a clinical trial explored whether broccoli sprout extract could improve metabolic control in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

Which are the most important results?

Men had a higher risk of progression of kidney disease stage or to start dialysis, compared to women. Women scored worse on important quality of care indicators, such as referral to nephrologist, monitoring of kidney function and provision of medications. In the clinical trial, there were no differences in metabolic control between the groups receiving broccoli sprout extract or placebo.

How can this new knowledge contribute to the improvement of people’s health?

Through exploring risk factors for a worse prognosis of chronic kidney disease and differences in quality of care indicators, the hope is that more patients will be able to receive better and more timely treatment. Also, people with chronic kidney disease are often excluded from clinical trials and several glucose-lowering medications cannot be used in these patients, why alternative treatment options are needed. 

What are your future ambitions? 

I will continue my clinical work as a resident and plan to start a postdoctoral position in the fall. 

Dissertation

Friday, 23 May at 13:00, Room B64, Karolinska University Hospital, Huddinge.

Thesis

Progression of chronic kidney disease: risk factors, sex differences and intervention