0
0
India has the second-highest number of people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the world, with an estimated 138 million cases in 2023, according to a new global study published in The Lancet journal. This places India just behind China, which reported 152 million cases, and highlights a growing public health crisis that is claiming nearly 1.5 million lives globally each year. The study, led by researchers at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington and other international institutes, analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study, which tracks disease trends across 204 countries and territories.
Key Findings and Global Burden
Chronic kidney disease is now the ninth-leading cause of death worldwide, with the highest prevalence rates seen in North Africa and the Middle East (18%), followed by South Asia (nearly 16%), Sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America and the Caribbean (over 15% each). The global prevalence of CKD has risen dramatically, from 378 million in 1990 to 788 million in 2023, according to The Lancet. In India, the prevalence among adults has increased from 11.12% between 2011 and 2017 to 16.38% between 2018 and 2023.
CKD is a major contributor to heart disease, accounting for almost 12% of cardiovascular deaths globally in 2023 and ranking as the seventh leading cause of heart-related mortality, ahead of diabetes and obesity. The study identified 14 risk factors for CKD, with diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity being the most significant drivers of disease burden.
Expert Commentary and Context
Dr. Theo Vos, senior author and professor emeritus at IHME, emphasized that CKD is both a major risk factor for other leading causes of health loss and a significant disease burden in its own right. “Yet, it continues to receive far less policy attention than other non-communicable diseases, even as its impact grows fastest in regions already facing the greatest health inequities,” he stated.
Experts agree that early detection and intervention are crucial. “With early recognition of risk, CKD can be prevented and with timely case finding, early diagnosis and early intervention, its progression can be halted or slowed,” said Dr. CJ Ferro, a nephrologist and researcher involved in the European Renal Association’s Strong Kidneys Task Force. The ABCDE campaign, which encourages healthcare providers to assess kidney disease risk, is one example of a global effort to raise awareness and improve outcomes.
Implications for Public Health
The rising prevalence of CKD in India and globally underscores the urgent need for improved screening programs, better access to affordable care, and targeted strategies to address key risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Dietary factors, including low intake of fruits and vegetables and high sodium consumption, also play a substantial role in CKD risk.
Because access to kidney replacement therapies, such as dialysis and transplantation, remains limited and uneven worldwide, a greater emphasis is needed on preventing disease progression and ensuring equitable care. The study authors stress that improving access to diagnosis and affordable care, tackling key risk factors, and investing in strategies that prevent the disease from advancing will be essential to address the growing burden of CKD on patients, families, and health systems worldwide.
Limitations and Counterarguments
While the study provides robust estimates, it is important to note that CKD prevalence can vary based on diagnostic criteria and data availability, especially in low-resource settings. Some experts caution that overdiagnosis and overtreatment can occur if screening is not targeted appropriately. Additionally, socioeconomic factors, such as low education and income, can exacerbate CKD risk and limit access to care.
Practical Implications for Readers
For individuals, the key takeaway is the importance of regular health check-ups, especially for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney disease. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, controlling blood pressure and blood sugar, and avoiding smoking, can significantly reduce the risk of CKD. Early detection through simple blood and urine tests can help prevent or slow the progression of CKD, reducing the need for advanced treatments like dialysis or transplantation.
Reference Section
Medical Disclaimer
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals before making any health-related decisions or changes to your treatment plan. The information presented here is based on current research and expert opinions, which may evolve as new evidence emergesew evidence emerges.
