What are
the causes?

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CKD CAUSES^22,23

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be caused by multiple factors, often combined. These causes may be medical, genetic, or related to toxic exposures.

Certain chronic conditions directly affect the kidneys and lead to their gradual deterioration:

Diabetes (type 1 and 2): it's the first cause of CKD in the world. Poorly controlled blood sugar damages the small blood vessels in the kidneys (diabetic nephropathy), gradually reducing their filtering capacity.
High blood pressure: High blood pressure places excessive strain on the kidney vessels, leading to their hardening and narrowing, which reduces their efficiency. Without proper control, this can accelerate the loss of kidney function.
Autoimmune diseases: Certain diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or vasculitis, attack the kidneys and cause chronic inflammation of renal structures (glomeruli, tubules), which can lead to progressive kidney failure.
Chronic pyelonephritis: This bacterial infection of the kidneys can lead to persistent inflammation and irreversible damage to kidney tissues, especially when it recurs.
Glomerulonephritis: This refers to inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli), caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or immune system disorders. If left untreated, it can lead to a gradual loss of kidney function.

Certain hereditary diseases directly affect the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure over time:

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD): : This genetic disorder causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, leading to an increase in their size and a decrease in their filtering capacity. It is one of the main genetic causes of CKD.
Alport syndrome: This hereditary condition affects the membranes of the glomeruli, leading to a progressive decline in kidney function, often associated with hearing loss and eye disorders.
Other hereditary forms of glomerulonephritis an also contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease over the long term.

Certain environmental factors and lifestyle habits can accelerate kidney damage:

Prolonged use of certain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen, when taken excessively or over long periods, can impair kidney blood flow, reducing their filtering capacity. Other drugs, like certain antibiotics or iodinated contrast agents, can also be nephrotoxic when used repeatedly.
Exposure to toxic substances: : Elements such as eavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury) or industrial solvents can damage the kidneys over time and contribute to the development of chronic kidney disease.
Smoking and alcohol: While not direct causes of CKD, they worsen risk factors such as high blood pressure and vascular diseases, thereby accelerating the progression of kidney disease.

Prevention and regular medical follow-up help reduce these risks and slow the progression of chronic kidney disease.