Figure.

 The renal and cardiovascular continuum (modified from reference 1 ). Three stages can be identified. In the first, only cardiovascular risk factors are present. In the second, the disease is asymptomatic, but clinical work‐up demonstrates signs of organ damage. In the third stage, renal or cardiovascular events develop, leading to organ failure and death. Efforts during the first phase should be directed to preventive interventions. During the second phase, attempts should be made to slow the progression of existing arterial or target organ damage. During the third phase, the priority is to delay events. CKD indicates chronic renal disease; ESRD, end‐stage renal disease.