Chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when a person experiences kidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts for three months or more [34717][39742]. CKD occurs in five stages; stage one is the mildest form of the disease, progressing through to stage five, which is known as kidney failure [39742].

The most common cause of CKD is diabetes. Other causes include:

• hypertension (high blood pressure)
• glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidneys)
• polycystic kidney disease (an inherited condition where cysts grow on the kidneys) [39742][45030].

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at an increased risk of developing CKD. Almost one in five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people show signs of CKD, and rates of hospitalisation and treatment are higher in remote areas compared to non-remote areas [41038]. Initiatives such as Purple House are helping to provide culturally appropriate care to support those with CKD living in remote areas.