What is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults?

Diabetes Mellitus is recognized as the most common cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults due to several factors. Hyperglycemia associated with diabetes leads to damage of the blood vessels in the kidneys, a condition known as diabetic nephropathy. Over time, this damage results in a decline in kidney function and can progress to end-stage renal disease.

The prevalence of diabetes in the population amplifies its impact, as it creates a substantial burden of CKD among individuals with this condition. Additionally, the metabolic and hemodynamic changes caused by diabetes, including increased glomerular filtration pressure, contribute to the progression of kidney damage.

Other conditions, such as hypertension and chronic glomerulonephritis, also contribute to CKD but do not reach the level of prevalence seen with diabetes. Coronary artery disease is related to cardiovascular issues and does not directly cause kidney disease. However, it is important to note that patients with diabetes often also experience hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, which can complicate their health status but still lead back primarily to diabetes as the initiating factor for CKD. Thus, Diabetes Mellitus stands out as the predominant cause of CKD in the adult population.