News

New York, September 25, 2024 

The International Society of Nephrology (ISN) will lead dedicated activities promoting kidney health as part of side events during the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Under the theme “Kidney Health Matters: Prioritizing the Silent Epidemic,” these activities aim to raise awareness and engage policymakers and the public on the urgent need to prioritize kidney health on the global public health agenda. 

“Kidney disease may be silent, but the global community cannot afford to be,” said Voice of the Patient Principal, Kevin Fowler, “By taking bold steps now, we can not only save lives but also reduce the heavy economic toll that comes with untreated kidney disease.” 

Kidney disease is a growing public health concern, often progressing silently until its late stages, leading to high human and economic costs. By 2040, it is projected to become the 5th leading cause of death worldwide. 

At an ISN exhibit booth, government delegates can review critical data from the Global Kidney Health Atlas, highlighting the human and economic burden of kidney disease. All delegates are invited to visit the ISN booth, sign a pledge, and commit to action at all levels.  

The ISN will also co-host the expert panel discussion, “Transformative Health Policies for NCDs: Emphasizing the Importance of an Integrated Approach for Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Conditions,” in collaboration with the Global Patient Alliance for Kidney Health. The panel will discuss the interconnectedness of kidney health with other noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and the need for coordinated action across the health spectrum. The expert panel will feature a talk from the Guatemalan Minister of Health, Dr Joaquin Barnoya, emphasizing national efforts in addressing kidney disease. Register here to join in person or online.

“Kidney disease is not just an isolated condition; it is frequently associated with other NCDs, such as heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. Together, these conditions form part of the larger issue of circulatory health,” stated Valerie Luyckx, ISN Advocacy Work Group chair. “If we are to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goal target to reduce mortality from NCDs by one-third by 2030, kidney disease must be prioritized by policymakers.”

Dr. Luyckx and Mr. Fowler will host a fireside chat in the “Innovating for Global Health and Well-being” session at the Devex summit “The Future Can’t Wait,” where the importance of prevention and early detection of kidney disease will be discussed as well as the need for bold action from policymakers if we are to live healthier and longer lives. Register here to join in person or online.

In addition, the ISN has launched a global petition urging UN Member States to request WHO to prioritize kidney health. The public is invited to sign this call to action for bold measures against kidney disease worldwide.

The ISN’s dedicated events promoting kidney health at the 79th UNGA were organized in collaboration with Devex and supported in part by the ISN Strategic Partner Program.