Mariana Markell
SUNY Downstate Medical Center, USA
Title: Gender differences in kidney disease: Women are not small men
Biography
Biography: Mariana Markell
Abstract
Men and women with kidney disease are often treated as if there is no difference between the genders. Studies suggest, however, that there are intrinsic differences in the male and female kidney, as well as effects of estrogen and progesterone on the kidney that differ from that of testosterone. These observations may underlie the “female advantage” that delays the progression of most kidney diseases to ESKD in women compared to men, as well as protection from AKI. When women reach ESKD, however, disparities in care arise, including fewer women starting dialysis with AV fistulae, as well as a much lower rate of living donor transplantation, and kidney transplant overall. It is hoped that recognition of the need for individualized care by gender will help to improve the care of women with kidney disease and especially ESKD.