The Gulf Coast Liver Disease Support Group will meet Thursday, September 23 at 7 p.m. in the west tower conference room of University of South Alabama Knollwood Hospital, 5600 Girby Road. Dr. Velma Scantlebury, professor of surgery and director of transplantation with the University of South Alabama Regional Transplant Center will present, “Preventing Kidney Damage in Patients with Liver Disease.”

Kidney disease in patients with liver disease or after liver transplantation is a common problem. Many patients with liver disease suffer from diabetes and high blood pressure, two of the most common conditions leading to kidney damage. Some medications used after a liver transplant to prevent rejection damage the kidneys and can eventually lead to kidney failure. Dr. Scantlebury will discuss kidney health in general and how to stay healthy. She will also review options when kidneys fail.

The Gulf Coast Liver Disease Support Group is dedicated to helping patients with liver disease lead healthy lives. Family members are welcome at the meetings. For more information, contact the USA Division of Gastroenterology at 251-660-5555.