DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) poses a significant global health burden, particularly in low-resource settings. Understanding its etiology is vital for prevention and early intervention. Objective: To assess the underlying causes of CKD among patients presenting to the Nephrology Division of Khyber Teaching Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over four months (November 2024–March 2025) and included 284 CKD patients aged ≥16 years. Data were collected on demographics, comorbidities, CKD etiology, and treatment details. CKD was defined per KDIGO 2012 guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v24. Results: The mean age was 50.61 ± 20.98 years; 63.4% were male. The leading causes of CKD were diabetic nephropathy (30.6%) and hypertensive nephrosclerosis (29.6%), followed by glomerulonephritis (15.8%), polycystic kidney disease (12.0%), and obstructive uropathy (7.4%). The cause remained unknown in 4.6% of patients. Among glomerulonephritis subtypes, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) was most frequent (42.2%). All patients were on hemodialysis: 66.2% via AV fistula, 18.0% via tunneled catheter, and 15.8% via non-tunneled catheter. Conclusion: Diabetes and hypertension are the predominant causes of CKD in our population. Early screening and management of these risk factors are critical to reducing the burden of ESRD.