A Social History of Kidney Failure and Its Treatment
The kidney is a remarkable organ that serves as a regulator, metronome, and custodian of the delicate balance of the human body. On a given day, minute by minute, it cleanses the body of toxins accumulated from diet, climate, activity, and injury. It allows us to exist and move in the world. However, most of us know very little about these incredible vessels nested within our bodies, and millions of us only learn about them after they cease operating. Every year, about a million Americans have end-stage renal disease, and around 37 million have some kind of chronic kidney disease. And it is an extremely common universe of problem and ailment that, until lately, would just kill those who suffered from it.
Renowned nephrologist Dr. Paul Kimmel takes us on a fascinating tour through the history of kidney illness, dialysis, and transplantation. Drawing on his considerable knowledge and decades of expertise in the field, he discusses how treatments, technologies, and medical practices have enhanced the care of renal patients. Kimmel emphasizes the impact of medical improvements on the lives of those suffering from this severe disease and provides a clear grasp of the remaining obstacles.
