Diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are the three most common diseases that lead to CKD. Some medications when used in excess or for prolonged periods (like chemotherapies and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories) can cause CKD as well. Other causes of kidney damage that can lead to and/or worsen CKD include systemic infections, trauma or injury to the kidneys, congenital abnormalities, and autoimmune conditions.[1]
What causes CKD?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Chronic kidney disease is primarily caused by diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension; certain medications and other factors like infections, kidney trauma, congenital abnormalities, and autoimmune conditions can also contribute to its development or worsening.