Chronic kidney disease is a condition characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time. Chronic kidney disease can be reduced with an earlier diagnosis, intervention and secondary preventive measures can be put in place to help patients deal with the effects of this condition. Chronic kidney disease is characterized as a public health problem because of its prevalence among Americans and due to the outcomes of the disease. Prevention requires a clear understanding of the earliest stages of the disease, antecedent risk factors, appropriate treatments and identifying populations at risk.
In general, patients can be placed into one of three categories:
- Very High Risk – those already diagnosed with chronic kidney disease
- High Risk – those with risk factors for developing chronic kidney disease
- Low Risk – those without chronic kidney disease or its risk factors
Ongoing screening and early detection of kidney abnormalities offers patients with the appropriate intervention and management of early-stage chronic kidney disease while preventing disease progression.