Why Europe’s Health Policies Should Prioritize Chronic Kidney Disease

The Widespread Impact of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by the progressive loss of kidney function, which disrupts essential bodily systems. Alarmingly, CKD often advances silently, showing few or no symptoms until the later stages when barely a third—or even less—of kidney function remains.

**”In Europe, an estimated 100 million adults live with CKD, with another 300 million at risk.”**

Early detection of CKD is possible through simple urine and blood tests, but these diagnostic tools are underutilized—even for patients at high risk, such as individuals with diabetes. This gap in prevention may be partly due to a lack of emphasis on kidney health in public health policies. For instance, despite CKD’s immense global burden—with an estimated 850 million people affected worldwide—and projections that it will become the fifth leading cause of death by 2040, CKD remains overlooked by key organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO). It is not included in the WHO’s priority list of non-communicable diseases nor highlighted within the EU’s 2022-2027 “Healthier Together” Initiative for non-communicable diseases.

Globally, fewer than 10 percent of those with CKD are aware they have the condition. This lack of awareness is especially concerning given its far-reaching impact. Beyond its physical toll, CKD takes a severe mental and emotional toll on patients. Nearly one-third of individuals in stages 3 to 5 of CKD experience anxiety or depression. Moreover, the treatments for advanced CKD, such as dialysis and kidney transplantation, are not only invasive but also life-changing.

The burden of CKD also extends to families, who often shoulder financial difficulties and face significant lifestyle disruptions while caring for loved ones.

The economic impact on health systems is equally staggering. Across Europe, approximately €140 billion is spent annually on CKD and kidney failure. In high-income nations, end-stage CKD constitutes 2 to 3 percent of total healthcare budgets, even though it affects only 0.03 percent of the population.

As CKD continues to rise globally, it demands greater attention in public health policies to improve early detection, prevention, and care. Addressing this silent epidemic is critical to mitigating its devastating effects on individuals, families, and healthcare systems worldwide.