Kidney disease is often called a “silent disease” because it can develop for years without causing any symptoms.

The good news is that many people at risk can be identified early—and early treatment can prevent or delay kidney failure.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

What are the risk factors for kidney disease?

Diabetes

Diabetes

The most common cause of chronic kidney disease worldwide. High blood sugar slowly damages the tiny filters inside the kidneys.

• High Blood Pressure
• Uncontrolled blood pressure damages the kidney’s delicate blood vessels, causing permanent scarring over time.
• Family History
• If your parents, brothers, sisters, or close relatives have kidney disease, your own risk is higher.
• Older Age
• Kidney function naturally declines with age, especially after 60 years.
• Overweight & Obesity
• Extra body weight makes the kidneys work harder and increases the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and protein leakage in the urine.
• Smoking
• Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces blood flow to the kidneys, and speeds up kidney damage.
• Heart Disease
• The heart and kidneys work as a team. Disease in one organ often affects the other.
• High Cholesterol
• High cholesterol can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those supplying the kidneys.
• Lack of Physical Activity
• A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension—all major causes of kidney disease.
• Frequent Painkiller Use
• Long-term or excessive use of painkillers such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen and similar medicines) can gradually damage the kidneys.
• Previous Kidney Problems

A history of kidney stones, repeated urine infections, acute kidney injury, or previous kidney disease increases the chance of future kidney problems.

If you have one or more risk factors

If You Have One or More Risk Factors…

• Ask your doctor for simple kidney screening:
• Serum creatinine (eGFR)
• Urine protein test
• Urine routine examination

Kidney ultrasound (when needed)

These simple tests can detect kidney disease years before symptoms appear.

Remember…

Remember

The greatest risk factor for kidney disease is not knowing you’re at risk.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, a family history of kidney disease, or are over 60 years of age, don’t wait for symptoms.

Know your risk. Get tested. Protect your kidneys.