At the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, a truly groundbreaking decision just shattered the silence! Kidney health has been catapulted onto the global stage in a historic move that promises a future of hope and healing for the staggering 850 million people affected worldwide. On May 23, 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) didn't just pass a resolution—it unanimously adopted its first-ever, landmark resolution on kidney health. This isn't just policy; it's a massive victory that formally prioritizes kidney disease, guaranteeing earlier detection and better care in the global fight against noncommunicable diseases!

Why This Matters

The International Society of Nephrology (ISN)—the premier global body for kidney specialists—hailed this as a "landmark achievement" and "turning point." Led by Guatemala and co-sponsored by multiple Member States, the resolution—"Reducing the Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases through the Promotion of Kidney Health and Strengthening Prevention and Control of Kidney Disease", establishes a framework for:

• Earlier screening to catch kidney disease in its initial stages.
• Enhanced prevention targeting risks like diabetes and hypertension.
• Expanded treatment access, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Integrated primary care systems for sustainable kidney management.​

It directly supports UN Sustainable Development Goals 3.4 (halving premature NCD deaths) and 3.8 (universal health coverage), addressing a crisis where kidney disease could become the fifth-leading cause of premature death by 2040.​

A Global Crisis Demanding Unity

Kidney disease burdens regions like South Asia and LMICs the hardest, often undetected until advanced. This victory stems from years of advocacy by nephrologists, patient groups, civil society, and cross-disciplinary allies in the fields of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, highlighting interconnected health threats.​

Voices from Nephrology Leaders

ISN President Dr. Marcello Tonelli stated, "Today is a turning point for kidney health, thanks to Guatemala’s leadership... It’s inspiring to see so many groups—including those focused on diabetes and heart health—come together."​

Fiona Loud, policy director at Kidney Care UK, added, "Seeing kidney disease prevention receive this international recognition—and the UK government adopting and supporting the resolution—is a significant moment for the kidney community."​

The Road Ahead for Nephrology

Nephrologists must now champion implementation via:

• Sustained investments in screening and risk-reduction programs.
• Cross-sector partnerships with governments, NGOs, and health systems.
• Global monitoring of kidney disease burden for targeted action.
• Equity-driven efforts prioritizing LMICs to prevent dialysis/transplant shortages