Kidneys

CKD: Know Your Risk

man talking to doctor

Who is at an Increased Risk for CKD?

Your kidneys play an essential role in supporting your general health; they are responsible for filtering the blood and removing waste from the body. Unfortunately, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive disease that results in a gradual loss of kidney function. CKD can also negatively impact other organs and systems in the body.
 
1 in 3 Americans are at risk for developing chronic kidney disease, so it’s important to learn more about CKD, and understand the factors and conditions that can increase your risk.
 

Risk Factors for CKD

While having any of the following risk factors doesn't necessarily mean that you have kidney disease, they do increase your chances of developing CKD. Early detection is essential when it comes to managing your condition.
 
Below are some risk factors for developing kidney disease:
 
  • Age: People over the age of 60
  • Family History: People who have a family history of kidney disease or kidney failure
  • Race/Ethnic Background: Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, and Native Americans are more likely to develop CKD

Health Conditions that Can Cause CKD

Statistically, the most common health conditions that cause CKD include:
 
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • History of acute kidney injury, heart failure, heart attack, or a stroke
  • Acute and chronic glomerulonephritis
  • Polycystic kidney disease Smoking
  • Obesity
  • Immune disorders, including systemic lupus erythematosus
Other diseases and lifestyle choices that can damage the kidneys, resulting in the development of CKD include:
 
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Renal arterial stenosis
  • Severe infections
  • Kidney trauma
  • Immunosuppression
  • Neoplasms
  • Interstitial tubular diseases
  • Nephrolithiasis
  • Congenital urological malformations
  • Renal vascular malformations
  • Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
  • Eclampsia
  • Retroperitoneal fibrosis
  • Drug abuse
  • Heavy Metal poisoning
  • Radiation

Contact Your Local Satellite Healthcare Center

If you are living with CKD and want more information about how you can help to improve your kidney health, contact your local Satellite Healthcare Center. You can also visit our blog for more information about chronic kidney disease and as well as kidney care and wellness tips.