Chronic Kidney Disease: Unveiling the Silent Epidemic and Its Pathophysiology

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a significant and growing global health issue, marked by the gradual and irreversible decline in kidney function. This progressive condition leads to the accumulation of waste products in the body, resulting in severe complications. Early detection and timely intervention are critical in managing CKD, yet the disease often progresses silently. This review explores the pathophysiology of CKD, including key mechanisms such as glomerular hyperfiltration, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and chronic inflammation. It also examines the primary risk factors for CKD, including diabetes, hypertension, age, and genetic predisposition. Diagnostic methods, including the use of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and proteinuria, are discussed, highlighting their importance in early diagnosis and disease monitoring. The review further evaluates current management strategies, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological treatments, and renal replacement therapies for advanced stages of CKD. Additionally, recent advancements in CKD research are highlighted, particularly in the fields of precision medicine, stem cell therapy, and gene editing, which show promising potential for slowing disease progression and improving patient outcomes. Through a comprehensive overview, this review presents the current state of CKD, while offering insight into the future of research and treatment, emphasizing the need for continued innovation to combat the growing burden of CKD worldwide.