In an era where precision health tech approaches are transforming clinical practice, nephrology has evolved at an unprecedented pace. The Asia-Pacific region, home to diverse healthcare landscapes, faces unique challenges in managing kidney diseases, making effective collaboration and knowledge-sharing essential. To address these changes and empower the next generation of nephrologists, Kidney Konnect, an initiative by DKSH Healthcare, recently hosted its inaugural regional webinar in collaboration with the Asia-Pacific Society of Nephrologists. Initiatives like Kidney Konnect allow nephrologists to gain access to groundbreaking resources and strategies in order to shape the future of kidney care.
The webinar, which focused on the management of Chronic Kidney Disease-Mineral and Bone Disorder (CKD-MBD), brought together over 240 participants from 14 countries. Esteemed experts Dr. Sam Lau from Hong Kong and Professor Marcus Ketteler from Germany led the session, providing valuable insights into the latest advancements in CKD-MBD care.
Key highlights:
The session emphasized several critical aspects of CKD-MBD management:
The webinar also highlighted updated recommendations for diagnosing and treating bone abnormalities in CKD-MBD, targeting phosphate and calcium levels, and managing parathyroid hormone abnormalities. These insights underscored the importance of integrating guidelines into clinical practice to improve patient outcomes.
Building a Collaborative Community
Kidney Konnect aims to foster a strong community of nephrology experts across Asia-Pacific, enabling knowledge sharing and collaboration. By connecting healthcare professionals, the initiative seeks to advance the understanding and management of kidney diseases, ultimately improving patient care.
DKSH Healthcare’s commitment to building this community reflects the growing need for interdisciplinary approaches in nephrology. With artificial intelligence and big data playing increasingly significant roles, the initiative aligns with the broader vision of innovation and sustainability in healthcare.
Looking Ahead
The success of the inaugural webinar sets the stage for future events. A second webinar is planned for October, followed by a face-to-face symposium at the 23rd Asia Pacific Congress of Nephrology (APCN X TSN 2025) in Taipei, Taiwan, from December 5 to 7, 2025.
The congress, themed “Gene, Immunology, Vast, Metabolism at its Finest,” will explore the integration of genetics, immunology, data analytics, and metabolic science in nephrology. This theme, encapsulated by the acronym GIVE, also reflects the vision of progress through generative AI, innovation, venture, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Empowering the Next Generation
As nephrology continues to evolve, initiatives like Kidney Konnect are vital in equipping young clinicians and physician-scientists with the knowledge and tools to shape the future of kidney medicine. By fostering collaboration and sharing insights, these efforts aim to create meaningful impacts for nephrology patients across the region. With its focus on education, innovation, and community building, Kidney Konnect is poised to become a cornerstone of nephrology advancement in Asia-Pacific, driving progress in the fight against kidney diseases.
