Chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease are closely linked, with many people living with both conditions. But their care and the research behind it are often disconnected and fragmented. The Kidney Data Science Catalyst team are working to tackle this by exploring which research questions matter most and which can be answered using health data.
The BHF Data Science Centre team brought together Kidney Research UK, Health Data Research UK, the UK Renal Health Data Network, researchers, health professionals, patients and public contributors. The priorities were identified following three rounds of feedback from the cardio-renal data science community – using a combination of surveys and a workshop to suggest, discuss and rank the most important questions.
This work led to a list of priorities for future research, which has been published in BMJ Open. The priority areas included spotting kidney disease earlier, improving treatment, reducing health inequalities, understanding why conditions are linked, and making better use of health data.
For researchers and funders, the list gives a clearer guide to where work is needed most. For patients and the public, it shows that lived experience can help shape research that aims to prevent illness, improve treatment and support better care for people affected by kidney and cardiovascular disease.
There is already evidence that these priority areas are being investigated through the Kidney Catalyst Driver Projects, which will be completed by the end of 2026.
Catalyst Lead Professor Samira Bell said:
“By bringing together patients, carers, clinicians and researchers, we have identified the areas where new research could make the biggest difference. These priorities will help focus efforts on preventing illness, improving treatment and delivering better, more joined-up care for people living with these conditions. It is encouraging to see this work already being reflected in ongoing Kidney Catalyst projects.”
Find out how the BHF Data Science Centre brings patients, the public, health professionals and researchers together to shape research that uses health data safely and responsibly.