**Chronic Kidney Disease: A ‘Silent’ Threat to Over 80,000 People in Cyprus**
A new nationwide awareness and education campaign aimed at tackling Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) has been officially launched in Cyprus. The initiative, organized by Alektor Pharmaceutical and AstraZeneca, emphasizes the critical need for prevention and early diagnosis under the slogan: “Some things exist, but are invisible.” The campaign is conducted under the auspices of several medical societies, including the Cyprus Society of Nephrology, the Cyprus Society of Internal Medicine, the Cyprus Diabetes Society, and the Cyprus Cardiology Society.
The press conference marking the launch featured key presentations from prominent medical experts, including Dr. Andreas Kourouklaris, President of the Cyprus Society of Nephrology, Dr. Andreas Stylianou, President of the Cyprus Society of Internal Medicine, Dr. Polykarpos Evripidou, President of the Cyprus Diabetes Society, and Dr. Kyriakos Yiangou, President of the Cyprus Cardiology Society. They shared alarming statistics regarding the prevalence of CKD, both in Cyprus and across Europe.
Currently, it is estimated that over 80,000 individuals in Cyprus are living with some form of CKD, with a significant number remaining undiagnosed. According to the data presented, between 30 to 40 percent of those affected are unaware that their kidney function is compromised. This lack of awareness is particularly concerning given the close links between CKD and other serious health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.
The campaign aims to shed light on the often silent progression of CKD, which can advance without noticeable symptoms until it reaches a critical stage. The experts at the press conference stressed that early detection is vital for slowing the progression of the disease and enhancing the quality of life for patients.
The situation is not unique to Cyprus. Across Europe, more than 93 million people are currently living with CKD, and the condition affects approximately one in eight adults. The impact of CKD is profound, with over 210,000 deaths annually attributed to the disease or its complications. Projections suggest that by 2050, CKD could become the third most common cause of death in Europe and the fifth worldwide. Furthermore, over 634,000 Europeans are currently undergoing kidney replacement therapy, underscoring the urgency of addressing this health crisis.
Despite the alarming figures, the medical community remains optimistic. Advances in medical science have equipped healthcare professionals with effective tools for the prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of CKD. The experts emphasized that knowledge and awareness are the first steps toward prevention, particularly for individuals with existing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. They encouraged these individuals to engage in discussions with their healthcare providers regarding their kidney health.
The collaborative effort behind the campaign reflects a unified commitment to raising awareness about CKD and its implications. By highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and preventive measures, the initiative seeks to empower individuals to take charge of their health and mitigate the risks associated with CKD.
As the campaign unfolds, it aims to reach a broad audience, educating the public about the silent nature of CKD and encouraging proactive health management. The message is clear: while CKD may often go unnoticed, its impact can be profound, making awareness and timely intervention crucial for improving outcomes for those affected.