Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is becoming increasingly common around the world, posing a serious threat to public health and the economy. It is a condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their function and can progress slowly over many years, sometimes without even noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, CKD can lead to serious complications, including kidney failure and cardiovascular disease, if not detected and controlled in a timely manner.

The problem is in the numbers

Data from the World Health Organisation show that about 840 million people in the world suffer from chronic kidney disease (CKD). In Kazakhstan, one in ten people suffer from the disease, but only one in seven is diagnosed with CKD. Today, about 3,600 Kazakhstan citizens, including more than 80 children, are on the waiting list for a kidney transplant.

Causes and risk factors

Diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension and obesity are the main causes of CKD. Other factors such as genetics, inflammatory diseases, unhealthy habits and long-term exposure to toxins can also increase the risk of developing CKD.

Diagnosis and treatment

Several key tests are used for laboratory diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to determine kidney function, creatinine levels, and other important parameters:

• Creatinine in the blood: Creatinine, a metabolic product formed in muscle tissue, is normally excreted through the kidneys. Elevated blood creatinine levels may indicate impaired kidney function as the kidneys become less able to remove it from the body.
• Assessment of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR): This test assesses how well the kidneys are filtering blood. The CKD-EPI formula is used to calculate the glomerular filtration rate in adults and the Schwartz formula in children. The normal CBF is about 90-120 ml/min/1, 73 m².
• Urine albumin-creatinine ratio: Urine albumin levels may be elevated in the presence of kidney damage, which can be an early sign of CKD. This test is often used to detect proteinuria.
• Measurement of electrolytes (sodium, potassium and others) in the blood: CKD can cause disturbances in the balance of electrolytes in the body, so measuring their levels in the blood is important to assess kidney health.

These tests allow physicians to assess kidney function and detect the presence or progression of CKD. The results of laboratory tests can also be used to select appropriate treatment and monitor the effectiveness of ongoing therapy.

Instrumental diagonstics of CKD:

• Kidney ultrasound (U/S);
• Computed tomography;
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Radiography with injection of contrast agents:

Treatment is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease, controlling symptoms and preventing complications. This may include medication, lifestyle changes and in some cases even dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Challenges and prospects

Although medicine has made considerable achievements in the diagnosis and treatment of CKD, it remains a public health challenge. Improving access to healthcare and educating the public about risk factors and prevention methods can play a key role in reducing the prevalence of this disease.

Conclusion

CKD is a serious public health problem that requires a comprehensive approach by the medical community, society and government agencies. Providing resources for early diagnosis, public education and affordable treatment are key steps to reducing the health impact of CKD.