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Chronic renal failure in Jamaican children
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Child Health, Section of Child Health, University of the West Indies, Kingston 7, Jamaica, West Indies. maorellim@cwjamaica.com
The West Indian Medical Journal
|March 14, 2003
Summary
Chronic renal failure in Jamaican children is primarily caused by glomerulonephritis and obstructive uropathy. Early detection and intervention are crucial, as mortality rates are high, emphasizing the need for improved pediatric nephrology services.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chronic renal failure (CRF) in children presents a significant health challenge globally.
- Understanding the specific epidemiology, causes, and outcomes of pediatric CRF in Jamaica is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document the incidence, etiology, and outcomes of chronic renal failure in Jamaican children under 12 years old.
- To identify key factors influencing pediatric CRF in Jamaica and recommend improvements in care.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of nephrology records for children diagnosed with CRF between January 1985 and December 2000.
- Data collection involved contacting pediatric surgeons and hospital-based pediatricians island-wide.
Main Results:
- Thirty-four children (21 males) were identified with an annual incidence of 3.2 per million children.
- Glomerulonephritis (50%) and obstructive uropathy/reflux nephropathy/renal dysplasia/chronic pyelonephritis (41.2%) were the leading causes.
- Mortality was high at 65%, with half of the cases presenting with established CRF.
Conclusions:
- Childhood CRF in Jamaica is predominantly caused by potentially treatable conditions.
- Increased physician awareness of progressive renal diseases and timely referral for nephrological consultation are recommended.
- Development of a pediatric dialysis and transplant program is urgently needed.