Chronic kidney disease in the Caribbean.

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Public Health
• Health Economics

Background:

• Diabetes mellitus and hypertension are primary drivers of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) globally.
• These conditions are also the leading causes of CKD and end-stage renal failure in the Caribbean, as per the Caribbean renal registry.
• Chronic non-communicable diseases, including CKD, represent a significant financial burden in the Caribbean.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the substantial economic and clinical burden of CKD in the Caribbean.
• To emphasize the need for strategies to decrease CKD incidence and slow its progression towards dialysis.
• To advocate for the identification of the most cost-effective renal replacement therapy (RRT) that maximizes patient quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing data on CKD and ESRD prevalence in the Caribbean.
• Analysis of the economic impact of CKD on healthcare systems.
• Literature review on effective RRT options and their associated costs and quality of life outcomes.

Main Results:

• Diabetes and hypertension are confirmed as the principal etiological factors for CKD and ESRD in the Caribbean region.
• CKD patients exhibit high healthcare utilization, morbidity, and mortality rates, imposing a considerable burden on healthcare systems.
• The financial strain of managing chronic non-communicable diseases, including CKD, is substantial within the Caribbean.

Conclusions:

• Urgent focus is required on preventive measures to reduce the incidence of kidney disease.
• Strategies to slow the progression of CKD and delay the need for dialysis are essential.
• Prioritizing economically feasible renal replacement therapies that enhance patient quality of life is crucial for sustainable healthcare in the Caribbean.