Hyderabad-Based Start-up Introduces Early Kidney Disease Detection Tool

Hyderabad, India – A local start-up has launched a ground-breaking diagnostic test to detect chronic kidney disease (CKD) much earlier than traditional methods. The new test, called RenIQ, focuses on early detection and aims to address the high burden of CKD in the region.

Revolutionizing Early Detection with RenIQ

RenIQ is designed using globally validated biomarkers and follows internationally recognised standards. According to Kiora's co-founder, Anupam Dey, the operational and medical teams are based in Hyderabad due to its robust healthcare infrastructure and high incidence of CKD.

Diabetes is one of the major contributors to rising CKD cases in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Dr K.S. Nayak, co-founder and chief medical officer of Kiora, notes that nationally, CKD prevalence is estimated at about 7-10 percent, but in these regions it stands closer to 13-15 percent.

Traditional tests depend heavily on serum creatinine levels, which may not detect kidney damage until nearly 60 percent of function has been lost. RenIQ utilizes cystatin C, a protein produced by every cell in the body and less affected by muscle mass, age or diet. This allows for earlier detection of kidney damage.

"We have many international experts as board members and continue to adopt global standards to provide cutting-edge solutions," said Dey during an interview with local media. "Our long-term goal is to integrate artificial intelligence tools to monitor patient health and personalise treatment plans." The team also plans to include home sample collection services, with reports generated within 24 hours.