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History of nephrology and renal replacement therapy in Korea

Hi Bahl Lee1

  • 1Soon Chun Hyang University College of Medicine, Kim's Clinic and Dialysis Unit, Miryang, Korea. bahllee@naver.com

Journal of Nephrology
|May 27, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Modern nephrology in Korea, starting post-WWII, has seen significant advancements. While the incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is stable, its prevalence continues to rise, impacting renal replacement therapy (RRT) needs.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Public Health
  • Medical History

Background:

  • Korean medicine has ancient roots, with modern nephrology developing in Korea post-World War II.
  • Key milestones include the first hemodialysis (1952), kidney biopsy (1959), and kidney transplantation (1969).
  • The establishment of National Health Insurance (1976) and the Korean Society of Nephrology (1980) shaped healthcare delivery.

Observation:

  • The Korean Society of Nephrology End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) Registry began in 1985.
  • Brain death legislation and organ sharing networks were established in 2000.
  • In 2009, 8,906 patients initiated renal replacement therapy (RRT), with a total of 56,396 patients on RRT.

Findings:

  • In 2009, 1,113.6 patients per million population (PMP) were on RRT in Korea.
  • The incidence of ESRD in Korea is stable or declining.
  • The prevalence of ESRD continues to increase in Korea.

Implications:

  • The growing prevalence of ESRD necessitates ongoing evaluation of RRT services and resource allocation.
  • Understanding trends in ESRD incidence and prevalence is crucial for public health planning in Korea.
  • Continued development of nephrology infrastructure and patient support systems is vital to address the rising ESRD burden.

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