The Burden of Chronic Kidney Disease in Nigeria

Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is on the increase globally. Regional differences exist in its epidemiology, with non-Caucasians most affected. The prevalence of CKD in Nigeria is between 1.6% - 12.4%. Ninety percent of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients may die within 3 months of initiating dialysis. Indices are worse in resource-poor countries like Nigeria, where financial constraints often hamper prevention and adequate intervention. A change in focus, therefore, towards creating more awareness, appropriate legislation, and policies geared towards prevention will be more realistic.