Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Nearly 14% of Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD), which includes persistent decrements in glomerular filtration rate or the presence of albuminuria. Although CKD is commonly attributed to diabetes or hypertension, there is growing awareness of the interplay among cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health. Progression of CKD can result in metabolic abnormalities and end-stage kidney disease, but cardiovascular events are even more common. The main goals of CKD treatment include slowing the decline in kidney function, preventing cardiovascular disease, and treating metabolic complications. Recent pharmacologic advancements have yielded effective therapeutic agents capable of concurrently addressing all of these objectives.