Key Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease?

Top Risk Factors for CKD: How to Protect Your Kidney Health

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term and serious health condition. Under this condition, kidneys gradually lose function over time, ultimately leading to renal failure. More than 10% of the Indian population is affected by CKD.

According to many, CKD is a public health issue due to its impact on quality of life, healthcare costs, and the risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Understanding the key risk factors for CKD is essential for early detection and effective management of the disease.   

Top Risk Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease

The risk factors of Chronic Kidney Disease can be categorised into non-modifiable and modifiable components. While modifiable factors are healthy and lifestyle-related, non-modifiable factors are inherent causes. Here’s a detail:

Non-modifiable Risk Factors of CKD

1. Family History and Genetic Predisposition:

Genetics play a significant role in the development of CKD. A family history of kidney disease makes an individual more vulnerable. Several genetic conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease (PKD), can directly cause kidney failure.

As per recent research, certain genetic variants, like APOL1 in individuals of African descent, substantially elevate the risk of CKD.

2. Age:

Like other chronic conditions, the risk of CKD increases with age. As people get older, there is a natural decline in kidney function. However, this decline gets worse due to the cumulative effects of other risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.

Elderly people are more prone to kidney dysfunction as they are on medications for other health conditions. This is why regular monitoring is crucial for them.

Modifiable Risk Factors of CKD

1. Diabetes Mellitus:

Type 2 diabetes is a major global cause of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Persistently high blood sugar levels over time damage the delicate blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste effectively and leading to kidney dysfunction. This eventually impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste effectively.

Diabetic nephropathy, a complication of diabetes, is identified by proteinuria, an increase in protein in urine. This condition results in a progressive decline in kidney function. Strict blood sugar control and early medical intervention are essential to reduce the risk of CKD in diabetic patients.

2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):

While hypertension is a cause of CKD, it is also a consequence. Persistent high blood pressure creates immense stress on the blood vessels in the kidneys. This leads to structural damage and loss of renal function.

Conversely, kidney disease can aggravate the body’s natural blood pressure levels as it disrupts the regulation of fluid and salt. Managing blood pressure through medication and lifestyle changes is important in order to prevent kidney damage.

3. Cardiovascular Disease:

Cardiovascular disease and Chronic Kidney Disease are closely tied. Individuals with cardiovascular issues often exhibit reduced kidney function, while CKD patients have a higher risk of cardiovascular disorders.

Shared risk factors of both conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, are the primary reason behind this connection. Multiple heart attacks can directly impair kidney perfusion, further contributing to CKD progression.

4. Obesity:

Obesity also contributes to CKD. It is a major risk factor for CKD if it is associated with type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

Additionally, obesity can lead to a condition known as obesity-related glomerulopathy. This generic ailment maximises the amount of protein in the urine, enlarging the kidney. To reduce the risk of CKD in overweight individuals, lifestyle modifications and weight loss and lifestyle modifications are the way to go.

5. Smoking:

Regular smoking can also increase the risk of CKD because of its harmful effects on blood vessels. It can also accelerate the progression of kidney disorders in patients who already have CKD. Quitting smoking is a crucial preventive measure to stay safe.

6. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections and Obstructions:

Repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) or chronic obstructions, such as kidney stones or an enlarged prostate, can lead to chronic kidney damage. Additionally, these conditions can cause backflow of urine into the kidneys, leading to infection and scarring.

7.Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors:

Though this risk factor is not related to health, lower socioeconomic status can also trigger CKD. Individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds often have reduced access to quality healthcare, poor nutrition and increased exposure to environmental toxins.

Moreover, occupational exposure to heavy metals or contaminated water sources can also trigger kidney disease risk.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) arises from multiple risk factors. Recognising these factors enables effective prevention strategies, helping to lower CKD incidence and slow its progression through early intervention.