CKD Risk Factors and Prevention

Apprx 1 in 3 adults with diabetes (and 1 in 5 adults with high blood pressure) may have chronic kidney disease.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the more common causes of CKD in adults. Other risk factors include heart disease, obesity, a family history of CKD, inherited kidney disorders, past damage to the kidneys, and older age.

Managing blood sugar and blood pressure can help keep kidneys healthy.

Ways to Prevent CKD

Preventing type 2 diabetes can help prevent CKD and kidney failure.

  • Manage risk factors for CKD:
    • High blood pressure.
    • High blood sugar levels.

Keeping a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and physical activity may help manage blood pressure and blood sugar levels in people with diabetes or in people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Page last reviewed: July 12, 2022