Kidney Health and Heart Health go ‘Hand-in-Hand’

The Irish Kidney Association (IKA) and the National Renal Office (NRO), together with the Irish Heart Foundation and Croí Heart and Stroke Charity, are joining forces for a campaign to raise awareness about the close link between Heart Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease. This campaign will mark World Kidney Day which was celebrated on Thursday, 9th March 2023, and will include a free public webinar titled ‘Kidney and Heart Health Go Hand in Hand’

Heart health and kidney health are closely related, as the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to all parts of the body including the kidneys, which in turn control blood pressure, and clean the blood (removing waste products). Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) can cause heart disease and vice versa, making it important to understand the relationship between these two conditions and ways to reduce the risks associated with them.

Known as the ‘hidden disease’, 1 in 8 people have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), with many unaware they have it. While only 1 in 1,000 people will reach End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) for which the only treatment is conservative care[1], dialysis or a kidney transplant, those with any of the five stages* of CKD are at risk of developing Heart Disease. Conservative estimates are that at least 50% of those with CKD Stages 4 or 5 have cardiac disease, and at least 50% of those with heart failure have CKD.

Diabetes and High Blood Pressure are leading causes of both Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Heart Disease. Even without these conditions, CKD can increase the risk of heart problems, and heart disease can lead to kidney problems. CKD is often associated with Anaemia, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen, putting extra strain on the heart.

To reduce the risk of both kidney disease and heart disease, it is important to follow a healthy diet, be physically active, and stay engaged with your own healthcare. Knowing your numbers, such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight, can help detect any changes that may indicate a problem. Regular check-ups with your doctor, attending specialists’ appointments when scheduled, and knowing when to seek urgent medical attention are also important. Understanding your own medications and ensuring your doctor and pharmacist are aware of all of the medications you take to avoid side effects are also key.