September 2025: Wertheimer, Noy-Klein & Shamir: Early nephrologist intervention cuts 10-year mortality in chronic kidney disease patients

A new study reveals that early intervention by nephrologists significantly improves survival rates for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Despite around 400,000 Israelis suffering from CKD, only 20% see a specialist, and 80% are not referred until their condition worsens, often requiring dialysis or resulting in death.

In the study led by Tammy Wertheimer, Edmond J. Safra MSc student fellow, Omer Noy-Klein, Edmond J. Safra PhD student fellow, and Prof. Ron Shamir (Computer Science & AI), in collaboration with Prof. Benaya Rozen-Zvi and Dr. Dana  Bielopolski, of the Nephrology and Hypertension Center in Rabin Medical Center,  the researchers analyzed data from 285,000 patients and found that those who met a nephrologist had a 23% lower mortality rate over ten years. Even a single consultation can lead to impactful changes in medication and lifestyle.

CKD is often called the “silent epidemic” due to its late-onset symptoms. Major causes include diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and aging. Israel ranks highest in kidney disease mortality among Western countries. Experts urge greater awareness among family doctors, clearer referral guidelines, and early intervention to prevent irreversible kidney damage and improve public health outcomes.

The study was featured in Israeli newspaper Haaretz.