The WHO’s kidney health resolution has established global recognition, but success depends on three concrete implementation steps. First, chronic kidney disease screening must be integrated within existing diabetes programmes—a proven model that leverages established healthcare infrastructure and patient pathways. Second, successful diabetes control frameworks should be adapted specifically for kidney care, incorporating lessons learned from decades of NCD programme experience.
Third and critically, policymakers must secure sustained political commitment beyond the initial resolution. Single policy moments are insufficient; kidney health requires long-term funding, workforce development, and accountability mechanisms.
For healthcare leaders and clinicians, this means advocating for integration within your institution’s diabetes and NCD programmes, rather than treating kidney health as an isolated initiative. This pragmatic approach maximizes resources while addressing the needs of 850 million affected individuals globally, particularly in resource-limited settings where the disease burden is greatest.
Read the full article on GMJ Newsroom.
Was this article helpful?
