NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight has partnered with global pharmaceutical company, Boehringer Ingelheim, to launch a new initiative aimed at improving chronic kidney disease screening across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. This collaboration focuses on identifying and supporting individuals at higher risk of developing chronic kidney disease, particularly those affected by health inequalities.
Chronic kidney disease affects approximately 10% of adults in the UK, yet many cases remain undiagnosed until the condition has significantly progressed. The new initiative will enhance early detection by increasing access to screening in communities where accessing the right care can be more challenging, providing targeted outreach, and ensuring that those most at risk receive timely intervention and support.
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, Local GP and Clinical Director at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said “Early detection of chronic kidney disease is crucial in preventing serious complications, including kidney failure. This collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim allows us to reach communities that are at increased risk, ensuring that more people receive the screening and care they need before their condition worsens.”
The SPOT (Screening, Prevention, Outreach, and Treatment for Health Equity) chronic kidney disease initiative empowers patients by providing access to kidney health education, encouraging them to speak to their GPs, manage their lifestyle to reduce their risk, and promoting early intervention through timely diagnosis. It will target those with known risk factors, including people with diabetes, hypertension, and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.
Vani Manja, Country Managing Director & Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim UK & Ireland said: “The SPOT CKD programme and the establishment of these collaborative working projects marks an important step in enabling better healthcare access and improving outcomes for those in underserved communities across these regions of England. This is part of a globally important initiative aligned with our focus on addressing health equity.”
Dr Kristin Veighey, National Institute for Health Research Academic Clinical Fellow in General Practice and a Consultant Nephrologist said “As a GP Registrar, I see many patients who are unaware they have chronic kidney disease until it has reached an advanced stage. The SPOT (Screening, Prevention, Outreach, and Treatment for Health Equity) chronic kidney disease programme is a vital step in bringing screening and support closer to those who need it most. By identifying chronic kidney disease earlier, we can help people make lifestyle changes and start treatments that can slow the progression of the disease and improve long-term health.”
Chronic kidney disease is expected to become the world’s fifth leading cause of mortality by 2040. If you have persistent or worrying symptoms that you think could be caused by kidney disease, you should visit your GP because if you do have chronic kidney disease, it's best to get it diagnosed as soon as possible.
Find out more about chronic kidney disease on the NHS website: Chronic kidney disease - NHS