An article in a recent issue of Renal and Urology News stated the use of peritoneal dialysis (PD) is increasing at a faster rate in developing countries than in developed countries of the world. This information comes from the first worldwide comprehensive assessment of PD.
 
A team of researchers gather data from 90 countries and concluded approximately 150,000 patients receive PD worldwide. Over a ten year period, the number of PD patients has decreased by 4.5 percent in developed countries and increased by 1.2 percent in developing countries. Researchers believe PD may be good for a number of countries because treatment may be less expensive than hemodialysis.

This article originally appeared in the August 2009 issue of Renal Flash.