Advances in nephrology: successes and lessons learnt from diabetes mellitus

The introduction of recombinant erythropoietin (Epo, epoetin) has resulted in a shift in focus from the treatment to the prevention of anaemia. This shift in treatment goals has provided nephrologists with the challenge of implementing preventative strategies in clinical practice. While this area of nephrology is still developing, a lot can be learned from the methods applied by clinicians involved in the prevention of other diseases, particularly non-insulin-dependent (type 2) diabetes mellitus. The prevention of type 2 diabetes has become a major aim of healthcare providers globally due to the epidemic proportions of the disease. In order to reverse this worrying trend, diabetologists have had to develop effective management strategies based upon their current knowledge. Nephrologists must now adopt a similar approach if the increasing threat from diabetic nephropathy is to be reversed. This should include strict normotension, the prescribing of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, administration of lipid-lowering agents, and the near-normalization of anaemia with epoetin. However, the implementation of treatment strategies alone is unlikely to be sufficient. Indeed, an effective programme of education is required to ensure that patients understand the seriousness of their condition and remain compliant with treatment. Similarly, educating the general public may help to reduce the burden of type 2 diabetes and the subsequent problems associated with the disease, including renal disease.