The International Diabetes Federation (IDF), together with the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and several partner organisations, has co-signed an open letter urging UN Member States to back the upcoming resolution on kidney health at the 78th World Health Assembly, taking place from 19–27 May 2025.
The World Health Organization’s (WHO) proposed resolution seeks to confront the growing burden of kidney disease—an often overlooked but increasingly urgent public health issue. With 850 million people currently affected and projections placing kidney disease as the fifth leading cause of death by 2050, the resolution aims to integrate kidney health into broader strategies for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and Universal Health Coverage.
The resolution advocates integrating kidney health interventions with existing NCD strategies and Universal Health Care systems while emphasising the need to tackle key risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension through WHO’s “Best Buys” and total risk approaches. The goal is to reduce the incidence and progression of kidney disease through early intervention and better resource allocation.
Recognising that kidney disease disproportionately affects populations in low-resource settings and that 90% of those needing dialysis cannot afford it, the resolution prioritises equity in access to care and promotes kidney transplants through timely referrals and increased organ availability.
Beyond its public health benefits, there can be a return of as much as 45 USD in benefits for every dollar spent, both direct and indirect. This saving reduces the financial strain on healthcare systems and the need for dialysis, a financially and environmentally burdensome treatment.
Ultimately, the resolution helps Member States monitor the impact of kidney disease and make more informed, evidence-based decisions about where to direct resources. It lays out a well-rounded approach that strives for better health outcomes and tackles rising costs, environmental challenges and the rapid increase of kidney disease in LMICs.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common diabetes-related complication. IDF advocates for better management and prevention of CKD through raising awareness, supporting global policy change and promoting early detection to delay or prevent this complication. Additionally, IDF works to improve access to affordable kidney care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, to address the growing burden of CKD among people with diabetes.
