Indian Society of Nephrology (ISN) and AstraZeneca have announced a multi-year partnership to create public awareness about kidney care and related health disorders, build education at the primary care physician-level on early diagnosis, prompt management and aid nationwide screening for at-risk patients and the general public to promote timely detection and holistic management.

AstraZeneca under close guidance from ISN will facilitate ‘Project SEARCH’ - a mass screening programme for early diagnosis of CKD in diabetic or hypertensive patients who are at high risk of kidney damage. A campaign will be conducted at over 2000 physician clinics over one month at multiple locations across the country and is expected to reach out to 2.4 lakh patients. The society has nominated top nephrologists of the country as regional coordinators to provide the requisite scientific support and mentorship to participating physicians

ISN will also spearhead the analysis of the collected data that can be used to change the practice and influence policymakers. The partnership will also focus upon undertaking certificate programmes by the country’s top 30 nephrologists for about 1000 primary care physicians through three interactive modules.