New report highlights silent epidemic of kidney disease globally
Despite one in 10 people worldwide global having chronic kidney disease, a new report – The Global Kidney Health Atlas – presented at the World Congress of Nephrology in Mexico City and compiled by the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) and kidney health experts worldwide – highlights the huge gaps in kidney disease care and prevention in both developed and developing countries, with many countries not prioritising kidney health, says a press release.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual loss of the kidneys' abilities to perform these essential functions, and can be caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, smoking and other risk factors. One in three people in the general population is at increased risk of CKD.
"A diagnosis of CKD does not mean that you will need dialysis or a transplant, but does signal that you are at risk for many health problems, including heart disease, strokes, and infections," says Adeera Levin, President of the International Society of Nephrology.
"People in the earlier stages of CKD can be treated with blood pressure lowering drugs, diet and lifestyle, and can maintain a good quality of life. It is vital therefore that all countries improve their rates of early diagnosis and treatment. However, across countries of all incomes, many governments are not making kidney disease a priority. This makes no sense, as the costs for treating people with end stage kidney disease are enormous, along with the devastating effect it has on patients and their families."
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