Nearly half of 844 million chronic kidney disease cases remain undiagnosed worldwide: Lancet
A new series in The Lancet reveals that nearly half of the 844 million chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases worldwide remain undiagnosed, with rates potentially higher in low- and middle-income countries. Researchers advocate for wider use of simple urine tests for early diagnosis, as CKD often progresses silently and is projected to become the fifth leading cause of death globally by 2040.
Why it matters
This highlights a critical global health crisis, as early diagnosis of CKD through simple tests can significantly slow or prevent disease progression, reducing mortality and the burden on healthcare systems, especially in underserved regions.
An estimated 30% to 50% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) cases remain undiagnosed even in high-income countries, with the proportion likely to be much higher in low- and middle-income nations, according to a new series of papers published in The Lancet . Researchers have urged wider use of simple urine tests to improve early diagnosis and treatment of a disease that affects 844 million adults worldwide.
Chronic kidney disease, a progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function, is currently the ninth leading cause of death globally and is projected to become the fifth by 2040, the papers said.
The researchers noted that CKD often progresses silently, with most people experiencing few or no symptoms until the disease reaches an advanced stage, when dialysis or a kidney transplant may be required. This contributes to low diagnosis rates and delays in treatment.
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