Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide. A new global study found that the number of people living with the condition has more than doubled in the past 30 years. Today, about 788 million people — roughly 14% of adults — have reduced kidney function. In 2023 alone, CKD caused around 1.5 million deaths, a 6% increase since 1993.
The study, part of the Global Burden of Disease project, looked at data from more than 130 countries. Most patients were in the early stages of CKD, when treatment can still help slow or even stop damage. The main causes are high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and excess weight — all of which put strain on the kidneys. Even mild kidney problems were found to raise the risk of heart disease and were linked to about 12% of all heart-related deaths worldwide.
Experts say CKD is often missed because symptoms don’t show up until it’s advanced. Simple urine and blood tests can detect kidney issues early, allowing patients to start treatment sooner. New medications can help protect the kidneys and lower heart risks. With obesity and diabetes rates still rising, researchers warn that kidney disease could become an even greater global health challenge unless awareness and early testing improve.
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