Kidney disease is a serious and growing health issue that deserves more public attention. According to the medical journal Primary Care, chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects roughly 13% of the U.S. population, making it one of the most widespread chronic conditions in the country. (1)

The scientific journal Kidney International Supplements identifies several key risk factors for kidney disease, including high blood pressure, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and the frequent use of pain-relieving medications such as NSAIDs. (2) These risk factors are common in modern lifestyles, but with proper awareness and prevention, much of the damage can be avoided.

The Importance of the Kidneys

Your kidneys may be small—each about the size of a fist—but they are powerful, multitasking organs that perform a remarkable range of functions every single day. The Journal of Physiology describes them as “an organ of critical importance in physiology,” and rightly so. (3)

Located near the middle of your back, on either side of your spine, your kidneys act as your body’s natural filtration system. They clean the blood, remove waste, balance electrolytes, and regulate blood pressure—all while keeping essential nutrients in check. (4)

Without the kidneys, our bodies would struggle to survive even a few days. They help us to:

Balance water and essential minerals like sodium, potassium, and calcium in the bloodstream.
Maintain stable blood pressure levels.
Filter and remove toxins created by digestion, medications, or physical exertion.
Activate vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones and calcium absorption.
Stimulate the production of red blood cells that deliver oxygen throughout the body.

Even normal metabolic activity produces waste products that can be harmful if not properly filtered. Thankfully, our kidneys continuously process these toxins, keeping the body clean and balanced without us even noticing.

What Causes Kidney Disease

Several underlying conditions and lifestyle factors can increase your risk of kidney damage. According to the Journal of Renal Injury Prevention, diabetes and high blood pressure are the two leading causes of chronic kidney disease. (5)

If you live with high blood pressure or blood sugar irregularities, it’s crucial to monitor your kidney health regularly. At every check-up, ask your doctor whether your readings fall within the healthy range and if additional screening is recommended.

Genetics also play a major role. (6)
If your family has a history of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), autoimmune disorders, or other inherited kidney conditions, you may have an elevated risk. (7)

Additional factors that can damage the kidneys include:

Birth defects that affect kidney structure or function. (8)
Improper medication use, especially long-term use of painkillers or steroids.
Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, poor diet, and physical inactivity. (9, 10, 11)

Each of these factors places extra stress on the kidneys, gradually impairing their ability to filter blood effectively.