Silent epidemic: Chronic kidney disease cases double in 30 years

Chronic kidney disease now affects an estimated 800 million adults worldwide. Cases have more than doubled over the past 30 years, with China and India reporting the highest numbers. The condition often shows no symptoms until the kidneys are near failure, making early detection vital. The global rise in chronic kidney disease is partly linked to increasing rates of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure. In the UK alone, 4.3 million people had diabetes in 2021/22, with another 850,000 undiagnosed. These conditions raise the risk of kidney damage over time.

Many patients remain in the early stages, where symptoms are rare. Preventable factors such as poor diet—low in fruit and vegetables but high in salt—also play a major role. Despite its quiet progression, the disease is the ninth-leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for nearly 1.5 million deaths in 2023. In the UK, it contributed to 45,000 fatalities. The disease places a heavy burden on global health systems. Early screening and lifestyle changes could reduce its impact. Most cases can still be managed if caught before severe damage occurs.