| Researchers engaged in North-South collaboration |
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Geography-independent equity between research collaborators is necessary throughout the research process, from conceptualization, to financial remuneration, to data use, publication, and intellectual property development.
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Public accountability and transparency must be prioritized, especially around possible intellectual or financial conflicts of interest and future data use.
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When specimens and data are stored outside the original setting, governance structures for future use of these specimens should have representation from the original setting, such as through inclusion of a local ethics committee or advisory board.
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International researchers and sponsors should contribute to local capacity building for research and research oversight.
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Ensure that both North and South partners have access to adequate resources, including funding, equipment, and expertise.
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Recognize the expertise and local knowledge that Southern partners bring to the table.
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| Researchers and industries whose workers are affected by CKDu |
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Researchers should fully consider worker-employer power dynamics of conducting research among workers at a worksite, with industry engagement (e.g., by not sharing individual participant results with the employer).
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CKDu research conducted in conjunction with industry must also include commitments from industry to address the disease risk factors identified.
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When industry funding is involved, research must maintain scientific integrity and independence and the funding source cannot influence analysis or the publication of findings.
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Clear plans to translate occupational research findings into tangible benefits for the affected workforce are necessary.
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Industries linked to CKDu should screen to prevent already sick workers from developing worsening disease. Individuals screened out should receive further assistance from the industry, although a number of questions on the specifics of this remain.
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| Researchers and health care systems caring for patients with CKDu |
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Clear lines of communication and referral to health care providers must be established by researchers before beginning CKDu research.
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Limited local health care capacity to care for patients with CKDu should not deter identification of CKDu cases; efforts should be made to connect patients to regional or national care networks where local capacity does not exist.
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Avoid implementing experimental treatments for patients with CKDu without robust evidence of their efficacy and safety.
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The unknowns of CKDu do not prevent health care systems from caring for these patients. Patients with CKDu may benefit from:
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Treatment of comorbid conditions
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Counseling to avoid known risk factors for CKD
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Counseling to avoid known risk factors for CKD progression, including nephrotoxic medications
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Treatment of the sequelae of CKD, including anemia, hyperuricemia, and electrolyte imbalances.
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| Researchers and governments whose citizens are affected by CKDu |
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Researchers should use their expertise to advocate for evidence-based health care policy and prioritization of CKDu care.
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Researchers should engage with governments in capacity building for CKDu related public health and medical care infrastructure.
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Researchers should report potential environmental hazards identified to appropriate government agencies.
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