CKD substantially heightens cardiovascular mortality risk, potentially exceeding deaths from progression to kidney failure. In 2021, CKD directly caused 1.53 million deaths globally and contributed to 2.1 million cardiovascular deaths indirectly, per the 2024 Global Burden of Disease Report.
The association between CKD and elevated cardiovascular risk is linked to a higher prevalence of atherosclerosis risk factors commonly observed in CKD patients, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and dyslipidemia. The source notes the potential impact of CKD on cardiovascular outcomes but does not provide data on specific prevention or treatment strategies.
Uncertainty remains regarding how early preventive measures directly translate to reduced cardiovascular mortality in CKD, given the information available. Further details on intervention effects or quantitative risk reduction are not included in the provided material.
Kidney International published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 18 Mar 2026.
The item focuses on Atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease—early prevention is better than late treatment.
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