Kidney Disease is a Global Threat—Let’s Start Treating it Like One

The 78th World Health Assembly on May 19 will be one of the toughest yet for global health ministers. With the U.S. exiting the WHO, conflicts ongoing, and economic instability rising, the organization’s financial crisis has deepened. Even before the U.S. withdrawal, the WHO was struggling with limited funds and seeking to diversify its income. Now, delegates must urgently allocate scarce resources where they’re needed most.

Despite current challenges, delegates must focus on long-term goals. This meeting offers a key opportunity to reduce the global impact of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), aligning with UN Goal 3.4. The Assembly should support a resolution urging the WHO to recognize kidney disease as a major cause of death and disability, adding it to its priority NCD list alongside cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness.

Global Impact of Kidney Disease

Kidney disease affects 674 million people worldwide (8.5% of the population) and is a leading cause of premature death. BBy 2040, projections indicate that it will become the fifth leading cause of years of life lost. Kidney dysfunction raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, worsens diabetes and hypertension, and contributes to other conditions like cancer and dementia. It also leads to poor quality of life and mental health issues. Chronic kidney disease is particularly rising in regions like Mesoamerica, India, and Sri Lanka, increasing mortality and disability.

“Kidney disease often goes underreported, especially in low- and middle-income countries, where many individuals are unaware of their condition.” This leads to delayed diagnoses, poorer health outcomes, and higher mortality rates.

Financial Considerations and the Call for Global Support in Tackling Kidney Disease

Few high-income countries support the resolution, citing the WHO’s financial crisis and the estimated US$16 million needed for implementation over seven years. However, this modest investment could unlock more funding for kidney disease research and treatment. Given the economic burden, such as the £7 billion (US$9.3 billion) cost in the UK, it is a small price for the potential benefits.

The WHO already supports efforts for diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension, and kidney disease should be treated similarly, with affordable therapies integrated into existing NCD strategies. Global nephrology societies emphasize that failing to prioritize kidney disease misses the chance to reduce preventable deaths.

Despite current challenges, addressing kidney disease is crucial for any strategy tackling the global NCD burden. Adopting the WHO resolution is a vital first step.

Read the original article on: Nature

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