The Problem
Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR) is a condition in which bladder urine flows back up into the ureters and into the kidneys, exposing the kidneys to infection. Globally, VUR occurs in more than ten million children under five and can cause irreparable kidney damage if untreated. Untreated VUR can lead to severe kidney scarring, stunted kidney growth, kidney atrophy, and in severe cases, kidney failure requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation. Additionally, untreated VUR can lead to lifelong health conditions such as high blood pressure, renal impairment, renal failure, and complications in pregnancy as an adult. Unfortunately, the current procedures used for detecting VUR are highly invasive and very traumatic for children.
