New partnership aims to improve hypertension and CKD management

Two specialist organisations have launched a new affiliate partnership aimed at transforming the way hypertension and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are addressed in education, clinical practice, and national policy.

The strategic partnership between the British and Irish Hypertension Society (BIHS) and the UK Kidney Association (UKKA) aims to:

• Slow the progression of CKD and reduce dialysis demand
• Prevent cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes linked to high blood pressure
• Mitigate complications in people with diabetes by targeting shared risk pathways
• Equip healthcare professionals with co-developed education tools and clinical guidance
• Improve holistic, joined-up management of patients
• Provide patients with accessible resources for self-management and risk reduction

Why this matters

The cardiovascular and renal systems are closely interdependent: hypertension is both a leading cause and consequence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Left untreated, it significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, heart failure and diabetes-related complications. Yet it often goes undetected until late in its course. The partnership said: ‘With hypertension now recognised as one of the most important modifiable risk factors for poor cardiovascular and renal outcomes, a more connected, preventative approach is essential.’