A risk factor is something that makes the chances for you to have a disease or condition higher. The chances of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is highest for people who are 65 years and older. Other factors:
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. Diabetes harms the tiny filters in the kidneys. It also causes harm to the heart, blood vessels, and eyes.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure
is the second most common cause of CKD. It happens when there is high pressure within the arteries of the body. Over time, it harms the kidneys. CKD can also cause high blood pressure.
Family History
Polycystic kidney disease
is a genetic disease that causes cysts to form in the kidneys. This can lead to CKD. There is a strong genetic link in people with type 2 diabetes who later have kidney problems. Having a parent, brother, or sister, who has or had CKD also makes your risk higher.
Race and Ethnicity
CKD is more common among certain ethnic groups such as:
- Black race
- Hispanic Americans
- Asian or Pacific Islanders
- American Indians
These groups are more likely to get CKD because they are more likely to have problems that lead to it. Diabetes is more common among these groups listed than other people. Black men and women are more likely to get high blood pressure than people of other races.
