Obesity & Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Posted by: DaVita Clinical Research

There are currently more than 30 million people in the United States living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition that impacts the ability of the body to filter and dispose of waste and excess fluid.

While CKD can progress slowly over the course of many years, symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, changes in urinary output, and swelling in the legs and feet throughout the day.

There are varied reasons why people have CKD, but the vast majority are Diabetes (30-50%) or hypertension (25-30%), with diabetes as the leading cause. Addressing the impacts of diabetes can help to avoid CKD or slow the progression of the condition.

Obesity and Diabetes

For those who have been diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and Prediabetes, a leading contributor to this diagnosis is excess weight which can lead to impaired insulin signaling, cellular resistance leading to a lessened response to insulin, pancreatic overwork, and more.  The impaired insulin response, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, which damages blood vessels, nerves, and organs over time.

Impacts of Obesity on Overall Health

The impacts of obesity on overall health are well-studied and researched, with some health outcomes significantly worsened for patients with excess weight.  An obese patient sees increased health risks in a wide range of areas, with obesity being shown to be a major risk factor in all of the following, including, but not limited to:

  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Some Cancers: Colon, Breast, Endometrial, and Kidney Cancer
  • Respiratory Problems
  • Joint Pain and Osteoarthritis
  • Mental Health Issues

By focusing on the primary risk factor of obesity for these diseases and conditions, patients can see improved health outcomes as a result of weight loss and lifestyle changes.

How GLP-1 Medications Work

In recent years, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications have revolutionized the treatment of obesity, particularly in patients with Type 2 Diabetes. GP-1, a naturally occurring hormone, reduces appetite and regulates blood sugar levels, which has  allowed patients to achieve initial and sustainable weight loss, as well as improving other related complications and metabolic dysfunction that lead to a wider range of health complications (in particular, diabetes).

The Future of Medications and Potential for Improved Health Outcomes

The development of GLP-1 medications has rapidly increased in recent years. Research has played a key role in determining any potential side effects of these medications, as well as their health economics and outcomes.

As research continues on these important medications for Type 2 Diabetes and weight loss, some initial results are particularly promising, showing:

  • Significant Weight Loss
  • Improved Glycemic Control
  • Reduced Cardiovascular Risk
  • Improved Kidney Function

CKD Populations in Clinical Trials for Obesity-related Medications

Obesity is directly linked to the leading causes of kidney disease (diabetes and hypertension), amongst other factors associated with renal impairment.   With a database comprised of >500,000 potential participants in clinical trials who live with Chronic Kidney Disease, DaVita Clinical Research has the population to help support clinical trials in weight loss and obesity trials. By addressing obesity more directly, these medications and treatment options have the added benefit of reducing the risks of a number of conditions and diseases that can improve patients’ overall health.