Emerging trends in pediatric chronic kidney disease and how to address them

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem associated with increased health costs, morbidity and mortality. CKD with rapid progression, which carries a poor prognosis, is more common in African American children. Thus, the development of a universal pediatric CKD screening program for high-risk children can be vital for social equity.

In a report published in the Journal of the National Medical Association, Marva Moxey-Mims, M.D., division chief of nephrology at Children’s National Hospital, and her co-authors, described trends in the incidence of pediatric CKD and management strategies aimed at enhancing health outcomes and reducing disease progression.

The authors also explored pediatric CKD trends and severity in different populations and CKD-related health problems. They discussed what to do about diagnosing early CKD in children and overall goals in managing CKD.

“This report can help push the field forward by providing information about options to those with chronic kidney disease, regardless of race, age or preexisting health conditions,” says Dr. Moxey-Mims.

Additional findings from the report can be accessed here.