New kidney and heart health guide for people with diabetes launched
The Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation (DRWF) has launched an expert-backed guide for early kidney and heart health detection.
On World Kidney Day (March 12), the DRWF shined a spotlight on the crucial link between diabetes, kidney and heart health.
With millions affected globally, the annual campaign called attention to the importance of regular checks and early detection for people living with diabetes.
The new information resource is authored by Clinical Professor Janaka Karalliedde, a leading expert in diabetes and kidney disease.
Entitled ‘Have you had your double check?’, the guide explains what the two vital tests are for kidney and heart health that people living with diabetes should understand.
Endorsed by Kidney Research UK, this resource provides practical advice on essential tests for kidney and heart health, helping individuals with diabetes monitor and manage their wellbeing more effectively.
Diabetes is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD), affecting up to one in three adults with diabetes. Often, CKD develops silently, with no symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
Early detection through simple urine and blood tests is vital for preventing complications and improving outcomes.
Regular screening for kidney function and cardiovascular risk is recommended for all people living with diabetes, underscoring the need for accessible information and proactive care.
World Kidney Day is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys.
It is a joint initiative of the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations – World Kidney Alliance (IFKF-WKA).
A statement from World Kidney Day organisers on the 2026 campaign, said: “World Kidney Day returns every year.
“Across the globe, hundreds of events take place, from public screenings in Argentina to Zumba marathons in Malaysia.”
It added: “We do it all to raise awareness. Awareness about preventive behaviours, awareness about risk factors and awareness about how to live with kidney disease. We do this because we want kidney health for all.
“Chronic kidney disease is a major and growing global health challenge, affecting one in 10 people worldwide.
“Environmental changes are now adding to this burden. Climate-related risks – air pollution, heat stress, dehydration and extreme weather events – compound the risks of CKD and accelerate its progression.
“Rising global temperatures also fuel the spread of tropical diseases that can damage the kidneys.
“At the same time, treatments for end-stage kidney disease, particularly dialysis, are resource-intensive: they require large volumes of water, energy and single-use plastics, and generate greenhouse gas emissions.
“A single haemodialysis session can have a carbon footprint equivalent to driving a car for nearly 240 kilometres. This creates a feedback loop: kidney disease and climate change worsen each other.”
This year World Kidney Day issued a call to action to governments, health systems, industry and communities to act together to build a healthier, more equitable and more sustainable future for kidney health.
Sarah Tutton, the CEO of the DRWF, explained: “This new resource is the latest in the DRWF high-quality, clearly communicated, evidence-based healthcare information leaflets available via the website in both digital and audio formats, ensuring accessibility for diverse audiences.
“DRWF is a member of the Patient Information Forum (PIF). An independent, not-for-profit organisation that represents more than 300 organisations across the NHS.”
DRWF gratefully acknowledges financial support from Pfizer, who had no editorial involvement in the development of the resource.
For further information and to access the guide, click here.