Kidney disease among top 10 causes of death; 800 million people affected and most don’t even know it: Here’s how to catch it early
dharasuta
Saturday, November 8, 2025
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common and ranks among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, says a Lancet study as it finds that cases of kidney disease have doubled since 1990 and now are affecting close to 800 million people worldwide. "Most people had stage 1–3 CKD, with a combined prevalence of 13·9% (13·1–15·0). In 2023, CKD was the ninth leading cause of death globally, accounting for 1·48 million (1·30–1·65) deaths," the report adds. "Impaired kidney function as a risk factor accounted for 11·5% (8·4–14·5) of cardiovascular deaths. High fasting plasma glucose, body-mass index, and systolic blood pressure were all leading risk factors for CKD DALYs," it added.
