Chronic Kidney Disease on the Rise: New Study Findings

Chronic kidney disease is now recognized as the ninth leading cause of death globally. A recent study indicates a record number of individuals with impaired kidney function. This research follows a study published in The Lancet.

Conducted by teams from New York University Langone Health, the University of Glasgow, and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, this analysis reflects a significant increase in kidney disease around the world.

Expert Insights on Prevention

The researchers reviewed 2,230 published studies and health data from 133 countries to assess diagnosis costs, mortality rates, and the disability impact of kidney disease. From 1990 to 2023, cases surged from 378 million to 788 million, marking its inclusion among the top ten deadliest diseases for the first time.

This study forms part of the Global Burden of Disease 2023 report, which found that about 14% of adults globally are living with chronic kidney disease. Alarmingly, around 1.5 million people are projected to die from this condition in 2023, representing a more than 6% increase since 1993.

Most study participants were found to be in the early stages of kidney disease, which can often be managed through medications and lifestyle adjustments before more invasive treatments like dialysis are necessary.

During the recent American Society of Nephrology’s Kidney Week meeting, the study was described by its authors as the most thorough estimate of the situation in nearly a decade.

Understanding Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease hampers the kidneys’ ability to filter waste and excess water from the bloodstream, according to NYU Langone. In early phases, there may be no noticeable symptoms, but advanced stages might necessitate dialysis or even organ transplants.

Kidney dysfunction is also linked to heart disease, accounting for approximately 12% of cardiovascular-related deaths worldwide. The primary risk factors identified include high blood sugar, elevated blood pressure, and a high body mass index (BMI).

Dr. Joseph Koresh, co-author of the study and director at NYU Langone Institute for Optimal Aging, classified chronic kidney disease as “common, deadly, and an escalating public health issue.” He emphasized the need for policymakers to prioritize this condition alongside other critical health concerns like cancer and heart disease.

Dr. Morgan Graham, also a co-lead on the study, indicated that chronic kidney disease is often “underdiagnosed and undertreated.” She urged for greater access to urine testing for early detection and affordable treatment options for diagnosed patients.

Recent advancements in medication can slow the progression of the disease and lower the risk of heart-related complications. Nonetheless, it may take time to notice a substantial global effect.

Dr. Mark Siegel, a senior medical analyst, highlighted the “dramatic increase” in kidney disease cases and concurred that it is often overlooked, especially since early stages usually show no symptoms. He pointed out that the kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste and maintaining balance within the body, making them particularly sensitive to various health issues.

In his remarks, Siegel called for greater awareness among healthcare providers regarding kidney function and the influences of specific medications.

The study received funding from the National Institutes of Health, the Gates Foundation, and the National Kidney Foundation.