Chronic kidney disease and diabetes: Understanding the connection

There are two main types of diabetes, both of which can affect kidney health. 

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that often develops during childhood or early adulthood. It is usually symptomatic and is diagnosed quickly. 

Type 2 diabetes, the most common form, typically develops gradually over time and is influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. When blood glucose levels remain elevated over a long period, they can damage the kidneys' filtering system. This damage may develop slowly and is often asymptomatic in its early stages. As a result, type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease can go undetected for years.

Living with diabetes does not mean putting life on hold. For many people, managing diabetes becomes part of their daily routine, including healthy eating, physical activity, medication management, regular checkups, and self-care.

Stay one step ahead: Know your risk and protect your kidneys

Understanding your risk for diabetes is an important first step toward prevention and early detection. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) offers a simple risk assessment tool that can help you better understand your likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.^* The link to this tool can be found at the bottom of this page.

While diabetes and kidney disease cannot always be prevented, there are important steps you can take to help protect your kidney health. Regular monitoring of blood glucose and blood pressure, staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, managing stress, and avoiding tobacco use can all play an important role.

Taking care of your health is about more than numbers. It's about understanding your body, recognizing risks early, building sustainable habits, and knowing when to seek support.

Value-Based Care: Bringing a 360-degree approach to living well with diabetes and kidney disease

Managing diabetes and CKD often involves more than treating a single condition. It requires ongoing support, coordination, and care that reflects a person's unique health needs and goals. Holistic health is key to overall well-being, and Fresenius Medical Care’s Value-Based Care operating segment is about supporting patients at stages 3b, 4, 5, and end stage kidney disease (ESKD) and its comorbidities, including diabetes. 

In the U.S., Interwell Health, a segment of Fresenius Medical Care, supports this approach through programs designed to help eligible patients manage CKD more effectively, and by extension, also manage comorbid conditions like diabetes. Interwell 360, a care management program offered by Interwell, helps patients better manage underlying chronic conditions, address related health concerns, and support their overall well-being. Eligible patients receive personalized support from an interdisciplinary care team that may include nurses, care coordinators, dietitians, social workers, and other kidney health experts. These professionals help patients navigate appointments, coordinate care across providers, and stay connected throughout their healthcare journey.

Learn more about how Interwell Health supports people living with chronic kidney disease and related conditions through personalized, coordinated care here.