Sankar Dass Navaneethan Honored with Garabed Eknoyan Award by NKF

Sankar Dass Navaneethan: A Luminary in Nephrology

Dr. Sankar Dass Navaneethan, a prominent figure in the field of nephrology, has been awarded the esteemed Garabed Eknoyan Award by the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). This accolade recognizes those who have significantly impacted the lives of individuals battling kidney disease. Dr. Navaneethan holds multiple titles, including Garabed Eknoyan MD Endowed Professor of Medicine and Chief of the Renal Section at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in Houston, Texas.

The NKF celebrates the efforts of numerous specialists each year, selecting those who embody the essence of the foundation’s mission: to improve the quality of life for kidney disease patients through informative actions and accelerated changes. The Garabed Eknoyan Award commemorates those who have made exceptional contributions to NKF initiatives, such as the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI®) as well as clinical research.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Navaneethan stated, “It is an absolute privilege to be recognized with this award named after Dr. Garabed Eknoyan, whose work has greatly influenced many suffering from kidney conditions. I am immensely grateful to the NKF.” He emphasized the critical need for a united community effort to address the increasing burden of kidney disease affecting countless families.

A clinician-scientist, Dr. Navaneethan’s research interests span various aspects of nephrology, including clinical trials focusing on kidney disease in diabetes and obesity, alongside the exploration of cardiovascular conditions linked to kidney health. His pioneering use of electronic medical records aims to enhance care delivery for patients afflicted by kidney diseases.

Dr. Kirk Campbell, President of the NKF, praised Dr. Navaneethan, stating “He embodies NKF's mission fully, and we take pride in recognizing his commitment to benefiting others through his innovative practices and compassionate care.” His impactful work provides a remarkable model for the award’s intended legacy.

Involved in multiple NKF committees, Dr. Navaneethan currently serves as Chair of the NKF 2025 Spring Clinical Meetings Program Committee, alongside his role as Co-Chair for the KDOQI commentary on the KDIGO chronic kidney disease guidelines. His scholarly contributions include editorial responsibilities for the American Journal of Kidney Diseases and other leading nephrology journals.

The NKF will honor Dr. Navaneethan, along with other award winners, during the 2025 Spring Clinical Meetings in Boston, scheduled for April 9-13. This annual event attracts nephrology professionals nationwide, focusing on the latest advancements in the field, fostering collaboration, and presenting significant research findings.

In the United States, chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 35 million adults, with the majority unaware of their condition. Risk factors contributing to CKD include diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, with certain demographics such as Black or African American persons facing significantly higher risks.

In conclusion, the NKF’s initiative to enhance the understanding and management of kidney disease continues to lead to better outcomes and support for patients affected. Dr. Navaneethan’s recognition not only highlights individual achievement but also stresses the imperative for collective action in combating kidney disease challenges. To learn more about joining the NKF community, visit NKF Membership.