Evaluation and Management of Obesity in Chronic Kidney Disease

Obesity is arguably the premier global public health problem of our era. It is also an independent risk factor for the development and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and adverse outcomes in persons with CKD. Fortunately, effective treatment options for obesity have proliferated in just the last few years. These newer therapies in conjunction with older treatments offer great potential in treating obesity and CKD, although many questions remain about their use, efficacy, and place within the overall therapeutic plan. This article will provide a discussion of the definition of obesity, its etiology, and its importance as a risk factor for CKD and other kidney-associated problems. It will then review current treatment options for obesity and the related evidence base. Finally, it will address major topics or controversies that remain unresolved and identify obstacles to effective treatment.