Chronic kidney disease awareness and updates on the management of diabetic kidney disease

Abstract

AbstractThe prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rising worldwide and is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. It is estimated to affect over 800 million people globally.CKD and its complications carry a substantial financial burden to the NHS in both primary and secondary care. The lack of public awareness of CKD and its complications leads to a reduction in planned follow‐up attendance; clinician awareness of the biomarkers of CKD and progression is still lacking. Measures to improve awareness are needed.Diabetes mellitus remains the single most common cause of progressive renal impairment and over 40% of patients with diabetes will develop diabetic kidney disease in their lifetime. A multidisciplinary approach to management and early intervention are therefore key to halt the progress of diabetic kidney disease. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has set clear guidelines for the management of diabetic kidney disease, highlighting newer therapeutic agents like SGLT2 inhibitors. New guidelines are also in place for referral to secondary care involving the Kidney Failure Risk Equation, as it identifies patients at increased risk of progressing to end stage kidney disease.Without robust measures for early detection and management of CKD, progression to kidney failure may occur, exacerbating the increase in cardiovascular disease, premature deaths and poor quality of life. This article is a call to action for the optimal and timely management of CKD. Copyright © 2023 John Wiley & Sons.