Stepwise approach urged to prevent chronic kidney disease in older adults

Older adults face a heightened risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a progressive condition that raises the risk of cardiovascular disease, end-stage kidney disease and premature death, according to an open-access article published in Drugs & Therapy Perspectives on 2 August 2026. The article, authored by Nicole L. France, sets out a three-step approach aimed at preventing CKD and its complications in this population.

The prevalence of CKD is heightened among older adults largely because major causes of the disease, including diabetes and hypertension, are common in this age group. The article notes that these underlying conditions drive much of the kidney disease burden seen in ageing populations, making prevention and early management particularly important.

The first step of the proposed approach focuses on modifying risk factors and managing comorbidities to help prevent the onset of CKD in the first place. By addressing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension before kidney damage develops, clinicians may be able to reduce the likelihood that older patients progress to established kidney disease.

The second step emphasises regular screening and monitoring to support the early identification of CKD. Early detection is presented as a key element of the strategy, allowing the disease to be recognised before it advances to more severe stages.

The third step involves initiating timely treatment once CKD is diagnosed, with the goal of slowing disease progression and managing associated complications. Together, the article states, these three measures aim to enhance quality of life and help preserve functional status in older adults.

The article is published as an open-access piece in Drugs & Therapy Perspectives, a journal focused on disease management.

Subject of Research: A stepwise approach to preventing chronic kidney disease and its complications in older adults

Article Title: Prevent chronic kidney disease and its complications in older adults with a stepwise approach

Article References: France, N. L. (2026). Prevent chronic kidney disease and its complications in older adults with a stepwise approach. Drugs & Therapy Perspectives. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40267-026-01267-4

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: 10.1007/s40267-026-01267-4

Keywords: chronic kidney disease, older adults, disease management, diabetes, hypertension, screening, early detection, cardiovascular risk, kidney disease prevention, comorbidities, Prevent, chronic