Primary Health Care approach to managing chronic kidney disease

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Primary Care Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant and escalating global health concern, particularly affecting aging populations.
• The rising prevalence of diabetes and hypertension are primary drivers of CKD.
• Managing advanced CKD stages through dialysis or transplantation incurs substantial healthcare costs, underscoring the need for early intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the vital role of primary care providers in the early identification and management of chronic kidney disease.
• To review essential screening methods and renal protective strategies for CKD patients within primary care settings.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes current literature on CKD detection and management in primary care.
• Key screening practices discussed include blood pressure monitoring, urine tests for albuminuria/proteinuria, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) calculation from serum creatinine.

Main Results:

• Early stages of CKD are often asymptomatic, highlighting the importance of proactive screening.
• Primary care providers are instrumental in implementing annual screenings for high-risk populations.
• Implementing renal protective measures is essential for slowing CKD progression.

Conclusions:

• Primary care providers are central to the comprehensive and integrated management of chronic kidney disease.
• Early detection and intervention in primary care settings can significantly impact CKD outcomes and reduce long-term healthcare burdens.