Epidemiology and Management of Chronic Kidney Disease in Children

Abstract

The global burden of chronic kidney disease remains high, and the cost of caring for patients with CKD is substantial, especially if end-stage kidney disease occurs. The incidence and prevalence of chronic kidney disease is understudied in children, and most of our data and current understanding are derived from large national registries of children receiving kidney replacement therapy. We have made significant progress in identifying risk factors that lead to the progression of chronic kidney disease in children, which has led to improved outcomes for children who require kidney replacement therapy. However, not all children have access to dialysis and kidney transplantation when end-stage kidney disease occurs depending on where they live in the world. Understanding the epidemiology of chronic kidney disease in children remains critical for the early recognition and prevention of the progression of chronic kidney disease and achieving equity in outcomes globally.