Kidney disease
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers for "kidney disease"
Chronic Kidney Disease: A Global Health Challenge
Definition and Classification of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by a persistent reduction in kidney function, typically measured by a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m², or by markers of kidney damage such as albuminuria, for at least three months . The disease is classified into five stages based on the severity of kidney function decline, with Stage 1 indicating mild damage and Stage 5 representing end-stage renal disease (ESRD) .
Global Prevalence and Burden
CKD is a significant global health burden, affecting approximately 8-16% of the world's population . The prevalence of CKD stages 1-5 is estimated to be around 13.4%, with Stage 3 being the most common. The disease is often asymptomatic in its early stages, leading to underdiagnosis and late intervention . CKD is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD), premature mortality, and decreased quality of life .
Risk Factors and Causes
The primary risk factors for CKD include diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, and aging . Other contributing factors include low nephron number at birth, acute or chronic kidney injuries, and exposure to nephrotoxic substances . The incidence and progression of CKD also vary by ethnicity and social determinants of health, possibly due to epigenetic influences.
Complications and Associated Conditions
CKD leads to several complications, including anemia, metabolic acidosis, secondary hyperparathyroidism, and mineral bone disorders . These complications significantly impact cardiovascular health and overall quality of life . Patients with CKD are five to ten times more likely to die prematurely, primarily due to cardiovascular disease .
Management and Treatment Strategies
Management of CKD focuses on early detection, treatment of underlying causes, and prevention of disease progression . Key therapeutic strategies include blood pressure control, inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system, and disease-specific interventions . Non-pharmacological approaches such as dietary and lifestyle adjustments also play a crucial role in preserving kidney function.
Pharmacotherapies targeting intrarenal hemodynamics, such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway modulators and SGLT2 inhibitors, have shown promise in reducing intraglomerular pressure and preserving kidney function. Novel agents like non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists may offer additional protective benefits through anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic mechanisms .
Future Directions and Research
Despite current therapies, CKD remains a progressive disease with high morbidity and mortality. There is a pressing need for novel therapeutic approaches to halt or reverse disease progression. Preclinical studies have identified several promising strategies, including targeting cytokines, transcription factors, and epigenetic modulators. Ongoing clinical trials are exploring these nephroprotective strategies to improve patient outcomes.
Conclusion
Chronic kidney disease is a complex, systemic condition with significant global health implications. Early detection, effective management, and innovative therapeutic approaches are essential to mitigate the disease's impact. Continued research and global health initiatives are crucial to improving the quality of life and survival rates for individuals affected by CKD.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic