The test is part of national genetic testing available on the NHS and will help identify if potential donors carry genes that mean they have a high risk of kidney disease after donation.

The test has been made available nationally after a request was made by members of Bristol Health Partners’ Kidney Disease Health Integration Team working at the University of Bristol and North Bristol NHS Trust.

The NHS plans to carry out around 160 tests a year to identify people with ‘high-risk’ variants of a gene known as ‘APOL1’, common in people of Black African and Black Caribbean, and the test will help clinicians assess donor suitability and future risk of kidney failure.

Following APOL1 testing, those shown to be at high risk of developing kidney failure later in life, and who are under 60 years old, will be advised against kidney donation.

The genetic test for potential donors could also help prevent future kidney disease and reduce healthcare inequalities among people of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage who are more likely to develop kidney disease than those of White heritage.

Those found to be at higher risk of kidney disease will be able to receive regular monitoring and kidney check-ups as well as given advice around lifestyle changes and diet which can help reduce their risk of developing kidney disease in the future.

Read the full University of Bristol news item