A scientific and practical conference dedicated to World Kidney Day 2025 was held at Astana Medical University. The event focused on modern approaches to diagnosing, treating, and preventing chronic kidney disease (CKD), as well as monitoring and nutritional support for patients.
Opening the conference, Vice-Rector of the university, Aigul Zhunusova, emphasized the growing interest of young specialists in nephrology:
"It is encouraging to see that interest in nephrology among young doctors is increasing. Previously, we trained 15 residents per year, but now this number has risen to 30. This is a conscious choice because kidney diseases remain one of the most pressing health issues not only for Kazakhstan but for the entire world."
The discussion brought together leading nephrologists from across the country, including Venera Altynova, head of the Republican center for nephrology coordination, professor Duman Turebekov, Associate Professor Gulzhan Ertlesova, as well as nephrology residents Diana Zharalkap and Assel Tulezhanova.
Experts addressed key challenges in nephrology, such as arterial hypertension, complications in comorbid patients, and the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach. The Chief Freelance Nephrologist of the Ministry of Health of Kazakhstan, Saltanat Tuganbekova, highlighted the importance of collaboration:
"We must be a pillar of support for each other in diagnosing and treating complex patients, responding promptly to changes in their condition. Returning to clinical practice and discussing real cases allows doctors to make more effective decisions."
Special attention was given to the challenges of kidney transplantation in Kazakhstan. Bagdat Sultanova, Vice President of the National Kidney Foundation, presented an analysis of the main causes of transplant failures and ways to prevent them. Experts agreed that improving the quality of preoperative preparation and postoperative monitoring will enhance the success rates of kidney transplants in the country.
The conference served as an important platform for sharing experiences, discussing modern diagnostic and treatment methods for CKD, and developing strategies to improve nephrological care in Kazakhstan. Particular emphasis was placed on the importance of early screening, timely initiation of therapy, and a multidisciplinary approach.
Participants stressed the need for closer collaboration between nephrologists, therapists, cardiologists, and primary healthcare physicians. The conference demonstrated that a comprehensive approach to kidney disease management, the use of advanced diagnostic methods, and the development of educational programs will help enhance the quality of medical care and reduce the burden of kidney diseases in the country.
