National Kidney Month

March is National Kidney Month. This is a time to raise awareness around kidney health and early screening for chronic kidney disease (CKD). 35.5 million people in the United States are estimated to have CKD and 1 in 9 adults with CKD do not know they have it. Early screening and early treatment help prevent health complications caused by CKD. Discover ways you can support National Kidney Month by visiting National Kidney Month | National Kidney Foundation

World Kidney Day 

World Kidney Day will be March 13, 2025. This year the question “Are Your Kidneys OK?” is highlighted during this event. This day is focused on bringing awareness to early detection and kidney protection. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect approximately 850 million people worldwide. Understanding risk factors, undergoing simple, non-invasive, and cost-effective testing, and seeking early treatment can lessen the burden of CKD. Help promote World Kidney Day by visiting www.worldkidneyday.org/. 

Diabetes Alert Day 

Diabetes alert day is March 25, 2025. Alert Day is a one day "wake-up call" where people are encouraged to take the Diabetes Risk test to find out their risk of developing diabetes. The Diabetes Risk test ask simple questions around potential risks of developing diabetes. Everyone is encouraged to take the risk test and share it with others. "Take It. Share It."  Take the risk test and find out more about diabetes prevention by visiting Diabetes Prevention.

The Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Chronic Kidney Disease Connection

Diabetes, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are chronic conditions that greatly impact health, are often connected, and affect many Montanans. Understanding how they are linked is important for managing and treating them effectively.

Diabetes

Diabetes is when blood sugar levels are too high which can lead to problems, like damaged blood vessels which increases the risk of heart disease and CKD. High blood sugar levels over time can cause fatty deposits in blood vessels, which is a major factor in heart disease.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is more common and is the leading cause of death among people with diabetes. The relationship works both ways - diabetes raises the risk of heart disease, and heart disease can worsen diabetes.

Chronic Kidney Disease

CKD is the gradual loss of kidney function, often caused by diabetes. It increases the risk of kidney failure and heart problems, creating a vicious cycle with heart disease. Early symptoms of CKD often go undetected, which means CKD can progress without screening and intervention.

The Interconnected Risks

The link between these conditions needs comprehensive management. Managing diabetes involves keeping blood sugar levels in target, while regular check-ups help identify heart disease risks. Kidney function tests can detect CKD early and interventions can prevent or slow damage to the kidneys.

Diabetes self-management education (DSMES) - supporting a healthy life

Diabetes, heart disease, and CKD can be major health challenges, but understanding their connected risks and using comprehensive management strategies can reduce the risk for and progression of complications. Regular check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and following treatment plans are key to managing these conditions and improving quality of life. A Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (DCES) can help you work out a plan that fits your needs and your life. Ask your provider for a referral for diabetes self-management education today. DSMES is a covered benefit in many insurance plans.

Putting it all together

When you prevent or manage one condition, you can prevent or manage all three conditions. Work with your provider and Diabetes Care and Education Specialist to reduce your risk and live your best life! 

The Diabetes, Heart Disease, and CKD Triangle | Diabetes | CDC

Keep Your Kidneys Healthy | American Diabetes Association

Clinical Trial Looks at Semaglutide effects on CKD

AS GLP1 medication use continues to be studied new information is emerging. 

Diabetes remains one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. People with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at an increased risk of kidney failure, cardiac events, and death.  A clinical trial examined the impacts of the GLP1, semaglutide, on people with both type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease and studied it’s effects on these outcomes.

The results for both primary and secondary outcomes showed administration of once weekly semaglutide reduced risk of clinically important kidney outcomes and death from cardiovascular events. Learn more on this study by visiting Effects of Semaglutide on Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes | New England Journal of Medicine.

2024 Advancements in Kidney Reasearch 

As we begin a new year, we can look back at some of the top advancements in kidney disease research. This year’s research and advancements has proven valuable areas such as transplant, expansion of kidney donation, impacts of semaglutide, kidney disease diagnosis, and treatments.

The American Kidney Foundation has tracked these developments in nephrology research. Find more information on the latest in CKD research and headliners from 2024 by visiting Top kidney disease research advancements from 2024 | American Kidney Fund.