Chronic kidney disease has climbed to the ninth leading cause of global death, with 788 million people affected, according to a comprehensive health study. Researchers from NYU Langone Health, the University of Glasgow, and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington found that the disease’s prevalence has risen from 378 million in 1990 to 788 million in 2023, marking its first entry into the top 10 deadliest diseases. The study, part of the Global Burden of Disease 2023 report, highlights that about 14% of the world’s adult population has chronic kidney disease, with 1.5 million deaths recorded in 2023—an increase of over 6% since 1993.
Impaired kidney function is also a key risk factor for heart disease, contributing to 12% of global cardiovascular mortality. High blood sugar, high blood pressure, and high BMI are the primary risk factors identified in the study. Experts emphasize that early detection and lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes for many patients. However, the disease remains underdiagnosed and undertreated globally. The research was presented at the American Society of Nephrology’s Kidney Week conference and is described as the most comprehensive estimate of the condition in nearly a decade. Study co-author Morgan Grams noted the need for increased urine testing and affordable treatments to address the growing crisis. Meanwhile, medical professionals stress the importance of recognizing the condition as a major public health concern, urging policymakers to prioritize preventive measures and treatment accessibility.