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Rethinking Chronic Kidney Disease in the Aging Population
Gaetano Alfano1, Rossella Perrone2, Francesco Fontana1
1Nephrology Dialysis and Transplant Unit, University Hospital of Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy.
Life (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 11, 2022
Summary
Aging populations face rising chronic kidney disease (CKD) rates. An age-adjusted classification is crucial to prevent overdiagnosis and guide appropriate management for older adults with kidney disease.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Geriatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- The global population is aging, leading to an increase in age-related diseases like chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- Current CKD classification lacks age adjustment, potentially leading to overdiagnosis in elderly individuals with gradual kidney function decline.
- Overdiagnosis of CKD in older adults can result in adverse clinical outcomes and diminished quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment principles of kidney disease in the aging population.
- To highlight the need for an age-adjusted CKD classification system.
- To discuss optimal management strategies for CKD in elderly patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on aging, CKD, and geriatric nephrology.
- Analysis of diagnostic challenges and treatment approaches for CKD in older adults.
- Examination of public health implications of age-related kidney disease.
Main Results:
- The aging demographic necessitates a re-evaluation of CKD diagnosis and management.
- An age-adjusted CKD classification is critical to avoid overdiagnosis and its associated negative consequences.
- Nephroprotective medications and patient-centered care, including non-dialytic management, are key in managing CKD in the elderly.
Conclusions:
- Effective CKD management in aging populations requires tailored diagnostic criteria and therapeutic strategies.
- Preventing risk factors and employing timely, appropriate treatments are essential to slow CKD progression.
- Patient-centered care, considering comorbidities and life expectancy, is vital for managing elderly individuals with CKD.
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