Nephrology, Hypertension & Renal Transplantation
Nephrology, Hypertension & Renal Transplantation
African-American Study of Kidney Disease (AASK)
The AASK study is designed to help determine the optimal way(s) to treat African-Americans with hypertension and mild renal insufficiency to prevent worsening of their kidney disease.
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a common cause of disability and death in the African-American community. It is commonly known to cause heart attacks (myocardial infarction) and strokes. Less well recognized is that high blood pressure frequently leads to kidney failure in African-Americans.
Kidney failure causes numerous changes in one's life-style. It requires treatment with either hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis or renal transplantation. Patients need to watch the diet very closely, particularly limiting the amount of protein and fluids they eat and drink. Current evidence shows that about 1 in 7 individuals on dialysis will die each year.
Preventing the development of kidney failure from high blood pressure is of major importance. The AASK study is designed to identify important improvements that can be made in the treatment for African-American's with high blood pressure and mild kidney disease. The National Institute of Health (NIH) is sponsoring this study.
The Division of Nephrology at the University of Florida is one of several institutions across the United States enrolling patients in this study. Patients in the study must have high blood pressure and mild renal insufficiency, but cannot have diabetes or other known cause for their kidney disease.
Patients receive free medications and follow-up during this study. There is no cost to the patient.
If you would like more information, please contact us at:
- Phone: (352) 392-4008
- Fax: (352) 392-3581
- E-mail: AASK info
- or regular mail: P.O. Box 100224, Gainesville, FL 32610