World Diabetes Day: Supporting the Whole Patient 

Deeper than Diabetes 

Diabetes impacts over 830 million people worldwide and remains one of the leading causes of death and disability. Its prevalence continues to rise, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where gaps in care and limited access to early detection make it harder for people to manage their condition. 

While diabetes is life-changing on its own, it also plays a central role in a broader network of interconnected diseases. People living with diabetes face a significantly higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease. More than 35% of people aged 20 years or older with diabetes have chronic kidney disease and people with diabetes have twice the risk for heart disease.  

This overlap has given rise to what is known as cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) conditions –a cluster of interconnected diseases that share common risk factors and pathways. Together, CKM conditions represent one of today’s most urgent public health challenges.  

The Need for Holistic Care 

Addressing diabetes in isolation is no longer enough. People living with diabetes must be equipped with knowledge and proper pathways to address other conditions that may arise. This is why a whole-person approach is necessary – one that breaks down silos between specialties, prioritizes prevention and early detection in primary care and ensures timely access to effective treatments.  

The Global Alliance for Patient Access and the Global Patient Alliance for Kidney Health join partners across the globe in raising awareness for the burden of diabetes and its connection to broader CKM health. By investing in preventive measures, promoting regular screenings and fostering environments for people with diabetes to thrive – at work and beyond – policymakers can reduce the impact of these interconnected conditions on patients, families and health systems worldwide.  

To learn more and explore resources, visit https://worlddiabetesday.org/. For more information on cardio-kidney-metabolic conditions, visit https://gafpa.org/cardio-kidney-metabolic-policy-forum/.