Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term renal condition that is caused by progressive damage to the kidneys, which prevents them from working as well as they should. The condition reduces the body’s ability to filter waste from the blood and if left untreated, it can progress to kidney failure and early cardiovascular disease.
The condition is also known as a ‘silent killer’, as most people live with the disease for years before they display any symptoms. Despite its high prevalence, as many as nine in 10 people who have chronic kidney disease are not aware they have it. This is why it is important to advocate for early screenings and intervention.
Related:Â Precision medicine for kidney disease
Impact of chronic kidney disease on patients and healthcare systems
With the condition affecting nearly 850 million people globally, chronic kidney disease poses a major global burden on patients and healthcare systems, with patients being at a higher risk of health complications, including hospitalisations.
To put this into context, CKD patients have a reduced life expectancy, with an approximate loss of 25 years at advanced stages compared to people with normal kidney function. Moreover, chronic kidney disease has a significant impact on patients’ quality of life and is also associated with depression.
Factors to consider for patients living with chronic kidney disease
It is crucial to recognise that the cardiovascular, renal and metabolic systems are closely linked, which means that disease in one system can ripple through the others, increasing the risk of complications.
With an improved understanding of this connection, the need for a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach that considers a patient’s holistic health is central to enhancing treatment outcomes.
Related:Â Regulating healthcare AI in a fast-evolving world
Improving outcomes for patients living with chronic kidney disease and cardio-renal-metabolic diseases in the UAE
At Boehringer Ingelheim, our purpose lies in transforming lives for generations with us fully dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with chronic kidney disease and more broadly, cardio-renal-metabolic diseases in the UAE.
Boehringer Ingelheim has been operating in the UAE for over 45 years and remains focused on making innovative treatments available to support patients, including those living with chronic kidney disease. Besides being a research-driven company that works on developing breakthrough therapies in areas of high unmet medical need to bridge treatment gaps, we believe in partnering for success.
We will persevere in our efforts to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease, the interconnectedness of cardio-renal-metabolic conditions, and the importance of early diagnosis and holistic management to protect kidney function and reduce complications.
References available on request.
Oussama Al Hajj is a representative of Boehringer Ingelheim.
