Why kidney health matters: Boehringer Ingelheim India’s CRM United initiative highlights the cardio-renal-metabolic connection

Kidney disease is often called a “silent condition” in early stages, because many people do not realize their kidneys are under stress until the disease has already progressed. Today, Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is estimated to affect more than 800 million people worldwide and ranks amongst the top 10 causes of death¹, making it one of the most common yet under-recognized health challenges. Kidney health is also closely linked with other major conditions, such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and heart disease.The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining the body’s balance, filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood while regulating blood pressure, electrolytes, and essential hormones.However, when their function begins to decline, the warning signs can be subtle or easily overlooked. Without timely awareness and intervention, this gradual damage can progress silently over many years.As awareness around kidney health and its wider impact grows, Boehringer Ingelheim India has been working to encourage more informed conversations about these interconnected conditions. As part of this effort, the company launched CRM United, an initiative inspired by the team dynamics in football. The campaign highlights the close interconnection between cardio, renal, and metabolic (CRM) health, encouraging people to better understand how these systems work together to support overall well-being.The link between cardiovascular, renal and metabolic healthThe cardiovascular, renal and metabolic systems function like a team. When one is under strain, the others can also be affected, often creating hidden health risks. Recognizing these risks early and intervening timely are keys to preventing the development and progression of CRM diseases and staying healthy.Globally, around 589 million people live with diabetes², while nearly 64 million live with heart failure³. In India, about 115 million people are estimated to be impacted by CKD⁴. Studies also show that at least one out of every three people with type 2 diabetes in India medical care settings may also have CKD⁵.These numbers highlight the urgent need for greater awareness, early diagnosis, and coordinated care for cardiovascular, renal and metabolic health.Just as a football team depends on every player performing their role well, the body relies on these systems working together. When one system begins to struggle, it can place additional pressure on the others. Early detection and timely action can help prevent complications and keep the body functioning at its best.Having conditions like poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, tobacco consumption, heart disease, family history of CKD, etc., may put an individual at risk of developing CKD. If you are at-risk of developing CKD, early detection plays a crucial role in protecting kidney health and preventing serious complications. Two simple tests can help identify kidney issues:It must be noted that both eGFR and uACR tests are essential for the detection of kidney disease; merely performing a single test may not suffice and possibly result in a missed diagnosis. Further, the doctor may recommend repeating the eGFR and uACR tests at periodic intervals, for optimally monitoring the risk in long-term. These tests can reveal hidden kidney stress early, allowing individuals and doctors to act before significant damage occurs.Protecting your kidneys for overall healthKeeping the kidneys healthy helps ensure the body’s systems work in balance. People at higher risk, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease⁸, should be particularly vigilant.Regular health check-ups, monitoring blood pressure, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking timely medical guidance can all help reduce the risk of kidney damage and related complications⁸.To help explain this connection in a simple and engaging way, Boehringer Ingelheim India’s CRM United initiative also features a short awareness video. The video illustrates how the cardio, renal and metabolic system influence one another, and why timely action can help protect long-term health.To discover how the heart, kidneys, and metabolism are connected, read our expert-led blog on CRM interconnectivity here.Turning awareness into action: The CRM United impactThrough the CRM United initiative, Boehringer Ingelheim India aims to highlight an important message: protecting kidney health is not only about the kidneys. It is about safeguarding the entire system that keeps the body functioning well, the heart, metabolic health, and overall well-being.Greater awareness, regular screening, and timely medical care can go a long way in reducing the burden of kidney disease and related complications.Dr. Shraddha Bhure, Director – Medical, Boehringer Ingelheim India, points out, “Prevention is like a strong defensive formation that can stop the opposing team from scoring. Otherwise, you’re on the backfoot, playing a game of catch-up constantly. That’s precisely how it is with the holistic vision of cardiovascular, renal and metabolic health. Greater awareness, regular screening, and timely coordinated care are key elements of a good game plan, to win against the health risks on sustainable basis.”After all, whether on the football field or in everyday life, the best strategy is to act early and stay one step ahead.References:Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in the story are independent professional judgment of experts and we do not take any responsibility for the accuracy of their views. This should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details. Boehringer Ingelheim India is solely liable for the correctness, reliability of the content and/or compliance of applicable laws. The above is non-editorial content and TIL does not guarantee, vouch or endorse any of it. 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