In this issue, Dunkler et al1 report novel estimates of how lifestyle behaviors and social connections influence the risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD) and all-cause mortality in people with type 2 diabetes. The authors followed nearly 7,000 patients with diabetes from ONTARGET (Ongoing Telmisartan Alone and in Combination With Ramipril Global Endpoint Trial) in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. After an average follow-up of 5.5 years, those with healthier diets, more frequent physical activity, healthier weight, no tobacco use, and larger social networks had significantly lower onset of CKD and risk for death.