Which condition is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease in adults in the U.S.?

Diabetes is recognized as the leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults in the United States. This is largely due to the effects of prolonged high blood sugar levels, which can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. Over time, this damage leads to diabetic nephropathy, a specific type of kidney damage caused by diabetes. As the condition progresses, it can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Understanding the impact of diabetes on kidney health highlights the importance of management and control of blood sugar levels. Identifying diabetes as a primary cause of CKD emphasizes the need for regular monitoring and early intervention in patients with diabetes to prevent the onset of kidney disease.