Chronic Kidney Disease Affects Nearly 800 Million Worldwide, New Global Analysis Reveals
A new global analysis estimates that 791 million people worldwide were living with chronic kidney disease in 2023, a figure representing a important and growing public health challenge. The study, published by Deutsches Ärzteblatt, utilized data from over 2,200 sources – including population registers, kidney failure registries, and household surveys – to model the prevalence of the disease across 204 countries and territories.
Chronic kidney disease is increasingly recognized as a preventable global health crisis, with possibly devastating consequences for individuals and healthcare systems. While effective treatments exist to slow disease progression, and kidney transplants are becoming more common – rising from 1.59 million to 4.59 million between 1990 and 2023 – early detection and preventative measures are crucial. The research highlights a decreasing risk of needing kidney replacement therapy with increasing age, and also points to the protective effects of GLP-1 agonists on kidney health.
Researchers, led by teams in Seattle, used a computer model to generate prevalence estimates. Co-author Lauryn Stafford emphasized the importance of addressing the issue, stating, “Chronic kidney disease is a growing global health crisis, the consequences of which are largely preventable.” The study underscores the need for increased awareness,improved access to care,and continued research into effective treatments and preventative strategies.
