Why your wee test matters

A simple urine test can spot early kidney disease

A simple urine (wee) test can spot early kidney disease- even when your blood test looks normal.

The Kidney Health Check is 3 tests and often the urine test is missed on routine check-ups. A urine test helps screen for a protein called albumin in the urine. Let’s learn more about why albumin in the urine matters and why you should take a wee test.

What you need to know:

Kidney disease is often called a ‘silent disease.’ You can lose up to 90% of your kidney function before you notice symptoms. A urine test can help your doctor spot kidney disease early.
When kidneys are damaged, they leak albumin into your urine. This is called albuminuria, and it can be a sign of damage to your kidneys. A urine test checks for this leak, helping you catch kidney problems early often before you feel any symptoms.
A urine test is part of the Kidney Health Check, which also includes a blood test and a blood pressure check.

Do I need a urine test?

You should have a Kidney Health Check once a year if you have:

Diabetes

High blood pressure

First Nations Australian aged 18 and over

You should have a Kidney Health Check every 2 years if you:

If you’re living with chronic kidney disease, a urine test helps your doctor see how well your medicines are working and monitor the health of your kidneys over time.

Support:

Need more help? Ask a friend or family member to come with you to your visit.
Still have questions? Call the KH4L team: 1800 454 363 (Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm AEST).

Key takeaways:

A urine test is an important part of a Kidney Health Check.
If you have risks like diabetes or high blood pressure, you should have a Kidney Health Check every year to stay on top of your kidney health.

What’s next: