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We are extremely proud to highlight Dr. Fahad Aziz as the NephCure Specialist of the Month for August. This initiative recognizes the outstanding contributions of NephCure Specialists to the field of nephrology and spotlights their work, projects, accomplishments, and valuable advice for the rare kidney disease (RKD) patient community.
Dr. Fahad Aziz is a transplant nephrologist, Associate Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Division of Nephrology at the University of Wisconsin. His clinical and research interests focus on kidney transplantation and rare kidney diseases. Dr. Aziz is also currently organizing the inaugural University of Wisconsin Rare Kidney Disease Conference and is leading initiatives to increase awareness of rare kidney diseases among primary care providers.
In addition to his clinical practice and research, Dr. Aziz recently co-authored the book Living with Lupus Nephritis: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients, which aims to educate and empower patients living with Lupus Nephritis. He is dedicated to advancing research, improving patient care, and promoting education for patients and healthcare professionals.
In honor of Membranous Nephropathy Day on August 11, NephCure spoke with Dr. Aziz about the importance of raising awareness and how patients can feel more confident asking questions during their doctor’s appointments.
To help raise awareness, NephCure asked Dr. Aziz to explain what Membranous Nephropathy is and how it affects the kidneys. Here’s what he had to say:
“Membranous nephropathy is an autoimmune kidney disease in which the body’s immune system damages the filtering units of the kidneys (glomeruli). This damage causes protein to leak into the urine, leading to swelling, fatigue, and, if left untreated, progressive loss of kidney function. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help preserve kidney health.”
When NephCure asked Dr. Aziz to share tips for patients who may feel hesitant to speak up during their doctor’s appointments, he offered the following advice:
“Your voice matters, and there are no “bad” questions when it comes to your health. I encourage patients to write down their questions before the visit, bring a trusted family member or friend if they wish, and ask their healthcare team to explain things in plain language until they feel comfortable. Shared decision-making leads to better care.”
In recognition of Membranous Nephropathy Awareness Day on August 11th, NephCure asked Dr. Aziz why awareness days are so important for both patients and physicians. Here’s what he shared:
“Awareness days shine a light on diseases that are often underrecognized, helping patients seek care earlier and empowering them with reliable information. They also encourage collaboration among patients, healthcare professionals, and researchers, driving education, earlier diagnosis, improved treatments, and ultimately better outcomes for everyone affected.”
For more information about NephCure Specialists and to find a rare kidney disease experts in your area visit, NephCure’s Find A Specialist Page
