Kidney Organizations Unite to Urge Global Action on CKD

A coalition of experts and stakeholders, including the American Society of Nephrology (ASN), European Renal Association (ERA), and International Society of Nephrology (ISN), has come together to push for global action on chronic kidney disease (CKD). Their consensus statement, titled Chronic Kidney Disease and the Global Public Health Agenda: An International Consensus, was published in Nature Reviews Nephrology.

The consensus statement highlights critical policy, advocacy, and implementation needs to ease the growing burden of kidney disease worldwide. Key recommendations include better access to care, improved prevention strategies, greater awareness and education, addressing of social determinants of health, increased funding for research and development, and international cooperation and coordination.

“In contrast to cardiovascular disease, stroke, and respiratory disease, [CKD] mortality rates have been on a troubling rise,” said Masaomi Nangaku, president of ISN. “Presently, kidney disease stands as the third fastest-growing cause of death worldwide, with deaths attributable to kidney disease [surging] by 50% from 2000 to 2019.”

In 2015, the World Health Organization (WHO) set a goal of reducing premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by a third by 2030. Although it has recognized cancer, heart disease, stroke, chronic lung disease, and diabetes as major NCD drivers of early mortality, it has thus far failed to similarly name kidney disease.

“Recognizing the silent yet pervasive impact of kidney disease as a leading driver of NCDs, our three societies can mobilize joint efforts to save lives and enhance health outcomes globally,” said Christoph Wanner, president of ERA.

“I believe that the [WHO] and governments worldwide will rise to meet this call to action,” added Deidra Crews, president of ASN.