Loading icon
Health Information Center

Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Risk Factors for Chronic Kidney Disease

A risk factor is something that raises the chances of getting a health problem. A person can get chronic kidney disease (CKD) with or without the ones listed below. The chances of getting CKD are greater in people who have many risk factors.

CKD is more common in people who are 65 years of age and older. It is also more common in people who are Black. This is because they are more likely to have other health problems that lead to CKD, such as diabetes.

Other things that may raise the risk are:

Diabetes

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most common cause of CKD. The body has a hard time moving glucose out of the blood. This harms the tiny filters in the kidneys.

Diabetes

Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most common cause of CKD. The body has a hard time moving glucose out of the blood. This harms the tiny filters in the kidneys.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is another common cause of CKD. It happens when the force on the blood vessel walls is too high. Over time, this harms the kidneys. CKD can also cause high blood pressure.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease is when many fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys. This damages the kidneys. It is caused by a faulty gene, so it is more common in people who have other family members who have had it.

References

  • Chronic kidney disease. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/genitourinary-disorders/chronic-kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease.
  • Chronic kidney disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/kidney-disease/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd.
  • Chronic kidney disease (CKD). Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/chronic-kidney-disease-ckd.
  • Overview of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/overview-of-chronic-kidney-disease-ckd-in-adults.

Contributors

  • Mark S. Itzkowitz, MD, JD
Last Updated:
2022-12-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.