One in seven people over 50 in Ireland have chronic kidney disease (CKD), according to latest figures, with 1 in 10 people of any age having the condition.

 

According to a report by the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) and the HSE National Renal Office, more than 200,000 people in Ireland over 50 have CKD, while more than 5,000 people have been diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease, also known as stage 5 kidney disease.

 

More than 2,400 patients are currently undergoing dialysis treatment, according to the report, which said these statistics "highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and support".

 

Early detection is crucial to slowing the progression of CKD, with a simple blood or urine test usually the first step in checking for the condition.

 

Through early detection, people can take steps to manage the condition, slow its progress and even prevent further complications.

 

CKD is known as a 'silent illness' as it can progress slowly over time, often without any obvious symptoms, leading eventually to kidney failure.

 

World Kidney Day, March 14, marked the return of the Irish Kidney Association's national fundraising and awareness campaign, which took a four-year hiatus during the pandemic.

 

Carol Moore, chief executive, Irish Kidney Association, said: "CKD is a very real and prevalent issue affecting approximately 800 million of people globally, including  500,000 people here in Ireland. The lack of knowledge about chronic kidney disease and its relationship with the better-known high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease conditions needs to be addressed. 

 

"According to the TILDA survey, 98% of people who had CKD were unaware they suffered from it. The results of the TILDA survey reinforce the Irish Kidney Association’s call for CKD to be integrated into the HSE National Chronic Disease Management Programme as a crucial step towards ensuring better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.  

 

"Through initiatives like World Kidney Day, the Irish Kidney Association wants to start a public conversation on the importance of early detection and collaborative care in managing CKD effectively.”