Kidney health matters: a global imperative for public health.

A joint statement by the International Society of Nephrology, the European Renal Association, and the American Society of Nephrology is calling for kidney disease to be recognized as a major non-communicable disease (NCD) by the World Health Organization (WHO). Kidney disease has a high global prevalence and has been overlooked for too long, resulting in low awareness, inadequate resources, and limited access to care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The statement highlights the significant impact of kidney disease on public health, the environment, and healthcare systems, and emphasizes the need for action, prioritization, and investment in research and innovation. By including kidney disease on the global health agenda, lives can be saved, suffering can be reduced, and health equity can be promoted. [Extracted from the article]