Proteomics International Laboratories (ASX:PIQ) has officially launched its first-in-class predictive test for diabetic kidney disease, PromarkerD, in Australia.
PromarkerD is a clinically validated blood test that can predict the risk of developing chronic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes patients up to four years before clinical symptoms appear. This early warning provides healthcare professionals with a critical window to intervene, enabling better patient management and reducing the risk of severe kidney complications, including kidney failure and the need for dialysis or transplant.
Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease globally, and the burden is particularly acute in Australia, where more than 1.3 million people are living with diabetes.
According to the International Diabetes Foundation, more than one in two adults with type 2 diabetes will develop kidney disease.
PromarkerD will initially be available through referral by a healthcare professional in Western Australia and the Northern Territory before the test is made available nationwide.
Proteomics International managing director Dr Richard Lipscombe said, “We are excited to officially launch PromarkerD in Australia, particularly on World Kidney Day, which underscores the importance of early diagnosis and prevention. Diabetic kidney disease is a major public health challenge, and PromarkerD offers a highly innovative, accurate, and accessible way to identify those most at risk. By enabling proactive management, we aim to reduce the personal and financial costs associated with this life-threatening condition.”
The company said it will now collaborate with private health insurers, patient advocacy groups, and government bodies to explore potential reimbursement pathways, aiming to make the test priced at $245 accessible to all Australians living with diabetes.
The test will initially be available through a direct-to-consumer go-to-market route as a prelude to out-licensing to major industry players in the diagnostics sector.