Definition

• This KPI tracks the number of deaths per 100,000 people caused by kidney disease, adjusted for age to account for differences in population age structures.

• It includes deaths from chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), excluding acute kidney injuries.

 Why This KPI Matters

• Public Health Impact: CKD is a growing global health challenge with high morbidity and mortality.

• Silent Progression: Often undiagnosed until advanced stages, making early intervention critical.

• Healthcare Costs: ESKD treatment (dialysis, transplant) is among the most expensive chronic care services.

• Policy Planning: Helps guide prevention programs, screening efforts, and resource allocation.

Who Is Most Affected?

Demographics

• Older Adults (65+): Highest prevalence and mortality

• People with Diabetes or Hypertension: These are the leading causes of CKD

• Racial/Ethnic Disparities:

  • Black Americans are 4x more likely to develop ESKD than White Americans

  • Hispanic and Native American populations are 2x more likely

• Low-Income Communities: Often face barriers to early diagnosis and treatment.

Sources:

1. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/kidney_disease_mortality/kidney_disease.htm
2. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/kidney-disease

What Works: Keeping the Measure on Track

Prevention & Early Detection

• Routine screening for kidney function in high-risk groups

• Blood pressure and diabetes control to prevent CKD onset

• Public awareness campaigns to promote early testing

Clinical Management

• Use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs to slow progression

• Dietary interventions: Low-protein, low-sodium diets

• Avoidance of nephrotoxic drugs and NSAIDs

Health System Strategies

• Integrated care models for chronic disease management

• Telehealth and mobile clinics to reach underserved populations

• Patient education on lifestyle changes and medication adherence

Challenges

Underdiagnosis

• Up to 90% of adults with CKD are unaware they have it

• Early stages are asymptomatic, delaying treatment

Access to Care

• Limited access to nephrologists and dialysis centers in rural areas

• High out-of-pocket costs for medications and dialysis

Health Disparities

• Structural inequities in healthcare access and quality

• Cultural and language barriers in patient education

Data Limitations

• Inconsistent reporting on death certificates

• Difficulty distinguishing CKD from other comorbid conditions

source last accessed July 2025

IDOH Vital Records