Chronic kidney disease may be far more widespread than previously believed.
According to The Sun, researchers estimate that many serious cases are never diagnosed, even in high-income countries, and the disease can progress for years without causing obvious symptoms.
Millions are living with the disease without knowing it
Around 844 million adults worldwide are believed to have chronic kidney disease, a condition that gradually reduces kidney function, according to The Sun.
Many serious cases go undiagnosed
Researchers estimate that up to half of people with severe chronic kidney disease have not been diagnosed in high-income countries.
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Diagnosed patients are often unaware
Among those whose condition has been recorded in their medical records, nine out of ten are unaware that they are living with the disease.
Symptoms often appear late
The disease frequently causes symptoms only in its most advanced stages, when the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant may be approaching.
Fatigue can be a warning sign
Persistent fatigue may be one of the symptoms that develops as the disease progresses.
Swollen hands and feet may be a signal
Swelling in the ankles, feet, or hands is among the signs that can appear in the later stages of the condition.
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Shortness of breath is linked to the disease
Some patients experience shortness of breath as chronic kidney disease advances.
Nausea can occur in advanced stages
Feelings of nausea are among the symptoms that may occur during the more severe phases of the disease.
Blood in the urine should be taken seriously
Blood in the urine is one of the symptoms that can be associated with chronic kidney disease.
The disease could become one of the leading causes of death
Researchers behind studies published in The Lancet estimate that chronic kidney disease could become the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040.
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Several factors are driving the increase
The growing prevalence is linked in part to an expanding and ageing population, as well as rising rates of diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.
Lifestyle factors play a role
Researchers point out that several risk factors are preventable, including low consumption of fruit and vegetables and excessive salt intake.
Early detection is highlighted as important
According to researchers, routine urine tests for protein could help identify the disease earlier and improve treatment outcomes.
Kidney damage cannot be reversed
Once kidney damage has occurred, it cannot be reversed, making prevention and early detection especially important.
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Some patients require extensive treatment
Treatment may include lifestyle changes and medication, while some patients require dialysis several times a week or a kidney transplant.
The disease can lead to serious complications
Chronic kidney disease is associated with an increased risk of kidney cancer, and kidney failure can trigger both heart attacks and strokes.
Sources: The Sun and The Lancet.
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