The principles are still broadly applicable today: 1  The condition should be an important health problem. 2  There should be a treatment for the condition. 3  Facilities for diagnosis and treatment should be available. 4  There should be a latent stage of the disease. 5  There should be a test or examination for the condition.
Diabetes Is the Leading Cause of Chronic Kidney Disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 17 million Americans have diabetes. Unfortunately, one-third does not realize they have the disease. Diabetes is the number one cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). In 1999, almost 44% of patients who needed dialysis had diabetes as the underlying cause for their kidney disease. The numbers continue to rise today.
Other problems that can cause kidney failure include: Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and IgA nephropathy; Genetic diseases (diseases you are born with), such as polycystic kidney disease; Nephrotic syndrome; Urinary tract problems; Sometimes the kidneys can stop working very suddenly (within two days). This type of kidney failure is called acute kidney injury or acute renal failure. Common causes of acute renal failure include: 1  Heart attack. 2  Illegal drug use and drug abuse. 3  Not enough blood flowing to the kidneys. 4  Urinary tract problems.