Which conditions are common causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD)?

Diabetes mellitus is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) primarily due to the way high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels in the kidneys over time. This damage leads to a reduction in the kidneys' ability to filter waste from the blood effectively. As the kidney function declines, it can progress to CKD. Individuals with diabetes often develop diabetic nephropathy, a specific type of kidney damage associated with the disease, which emphasizes the link between diabetes and kidney health.

The other conditions listed—osteoporosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and acid reflux—do not have the same direct impact on kidney function. Osteoporosis primarily affects bone density and strength rather than kidney health. Chronic fatigue syndrome is a complex disorder mainly characterized by extreme fatigue and doesn’t directly lead to kidney disease. Acid reflux is focused on the gastrointestinal tract and does not contribute to the dysfunction of kidney filtration or structure. Therefore, diabetes is recognized as a significant risk factor for CKD due to its impact on kidney health.