Nearly 850 million people worldwide have chronic kidney disease (CKD), a silent but serious disease that, left undiagnosed and untreated, CKD can progress to kidney failure. World Kidney Day, observed on March 13, helps focus attention on the importance of identifying high-risk people and populations and performing routine screenings to prevent severe outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and improve quality of life. Learn about CKD risk factors, and the simple tests that can tell you and your doctor where your kidney health stands.*

Who Is at Risk for CKD?

Certain health conditions and genetic factors significantly increase the risk of kidney disease. The major risk factors are:

• Diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of CKD globally.
• Hypertension. High blood pressure can damage kidney function over time.
• Cardiovascular disease. CVD is strongly linked to kidney disease progression.
• Obesity. Too much excess weight increases strain on the kidneys.
• Family history of kidney disease. Genetic predisposition plays a role in whether or not you develop CKD, though lifestyle habits like diet, smoking, and other factors play roles, as well.

If you are already navigating CKD, World Kidney Day is a good time to speak with your family members about the genetic aspect of kidney disease and urge them to take advantage of screenings that can detect early signs of declining kidney function.

You can also warn them about additional CKD risks which include:

• Autoimmune diseases like lupus nephritis, sarcoidosis, and Goodpasture syndrome, 
• Pregnancy-related kidney issues such as acute kidney injury (AKI) and preeclampsia,
• Recurrent instances of kidney stones, and 
• Urinary tract blockages and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Research shows that, in lower-income regions, environmental hazards such as heat stress, traditional medicines, and infections like hepatitis B, HIV, and parasitic diseases can contribute to kidney damage.

Simple Tests Can Save Lives

Early detection is key to preventing CKD progression. Cost-effective, non-invasive tests for high-risk individuals include:

• Blood pressure checks. Detect hypertension.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) helps assess obesity-related risks
• Urine tests. Detect albumin (protein) levels, signaling kidney damage
• Blood tests. Measure glucose for diabetes and creatinine for kidney function assessment

Every day is a good day to prioritize your kidney health, and check in with your nephrologist and renal dietitian to ensure that your home care regimen is optimized and up-to-date. 

Anyone can also take this short kidney health quiz from the International Society of Nephrology. Be prepared to use centimeters and kilograms for your height and weight. The quiz does not replace medical testing and advice.

*World Kidney Day. (2025). Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect early, protect kidney health. https://www.worldkidneyday.org/2025-campaign/ 

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