What's Up Docs? Doctors’ Notes: Kidneys
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Aug 19, 2025 This week, Dr. Kate Bramham, a leading Consultant Nephrologist and Reader at King’s College London, joins the conversation. She shares insights on chronic kidney disease, especially how it disproportionately affects certain communities. The discussion touches on the unique kidney health challenges faced by women, particularly during pregnancy. They also explore the impact of salt intake on kidney function, highlighting cultural influences on diet and the importance of early detection. Tune in for an enlightening dive into kidney health!
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Twin Organ Reserve
- Kate Bramham is an identical twin and describes having a 'reserve' organ bank in family context.
- She notes identical twins can still share risks for kidney disease because genetics and shared lifestyle factors affect both.
Pregnancy Dramatically Increases Kidney Workload
- Pregnancy raises kidney workload by around 50% and usually improves blood tests temporarily.
- In low-income settings, pregnancy can worsen kidney damage and many young women on dialysis are pregnant or recently postpartum.
Consider HRT If You Have Kidney Disease
- Don't dismiss menopause symptoms as just kidney disease and don't avoid HRT because of kidney issues.
- Dr Kate Bramham says HRT is still an option and many women with kidney disease are not being prescribed it despite potential benefits.