Chronic kidney disease

What is chronic kidney disease?

• Chronic kidney disease is a common, progressive, preventable and treatable condition.
• It is often called the ‘silent disease’ because there can be no warning signs.
• Chronic kidney disease can be detected by having a blood and urine check.
• Kidney disease can often progress without symptoms.
• End-stage kidney disease is when kidney function can be replaced by dialysis or transplant or managed by supportive care.

Risk factors

You are at an increased risk of chronic kidney disease if you:

• have high blood pressure 
• have diabetes 
• smoke cigarettes 
• are obese 
• have a family history of kidney disease
• are over 60 years of age 
• are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
• Have known heart disease.

Helpful information and resources

• Kidney Health Australia website
• Kidney Health Information Service – phone 1800 682 531

Information for health professionals

• Kidney Health Australia eGFR Desktop Resource Card
• Kidney Health Australia MDRD GFR Calculator
• Tasmanian Health Pathways