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Inequalities in access to pediatric ESRD care: a global health challenge
Jérôme Harambat1,2, Pepe Mfutu Ekulu3,4
1Unité de Néphrologie Pédiatrique, Service de Pédiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France. jerome.harambat@chu-bordeaux.fr.
Insights
Global disparities exist in pediatric kidney transplantation access. Addressing these inequalities in pediatric renal replacement therapy (RRT) is crucial for improving child health outcomes worldwide.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nephrology
- Global Health Equity
- Renal Replacement Therapy
Background:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health concern in children, leading to mortality and disability.
- Advances in CKD management have increased the demand for pediatric renal replacement therapy (RRT) globally.
- Existing studies reveal significant regional disparities in access to pediatric kidney transplantation.
Discussion:
- This review examines the global burden of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in children.
- It assesses the worldwide need for and provision of pediatric RRT.
- Inequalities in pediatric renal care access, both between and within countries, are a primary focus.
Key Insights:
- Significant disparities in access to pediatric kidney transplantation exist, even within countries.
- The global provision of RRT for children does not meet the growing demand.
- Unequal access to essential pediatric renal care is a critical issue that requires immediate attention.
Outlook:
- Reducing global inequalities in pediatric RRT access is a complex challenge.
- Increased awareness and targeted interventions are necessary to address these disparities.
- Effective policies are essential to ensure equitable access to life-saving renal care for children worldwide.
Abstract:
The increasing attention paid to chronic kidney disease (CKD) as a major cause of mortality and disability, as well as the advances in management of CKD in children, have created a growing demand for pediatric renal replacement therapy (RRT) worldwide. A study by Koch Nogueira and colleagues of children on the transplant waiting list showed large disparities in access to pediatric kidney transplantation between regions in Brazil. This finding raises a wider question about inequalities in access to CKD care in children. Here we review the available data on the global burden of end-stage renal disease in children, the need for pediatric RRT, and its actual provision worldwide. We focus on inequalities in access to renal care for children that currently exist between and within countries. Reduction in worldwide inequalities in access to RRT in children remains a challenge, which requires greater awareness and effective interventions and policies.
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