Clinicoetiological Profile of Chronic Kidney Disease in Young Population in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Background: The kidneys play a pivotal role in maintaining internal homeostasis by regulating water, electrolyte balance, acid–base status, and blood pressure, in addition to performing important endocrine functions such as erythropoietin and calcitriol production. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is increasingly recognized as a major public health problem worldwide, particularly in developing countries like India. While CKD is traditionally associated with older adults, its growing prevalence among younger individuals is alarming due to its long-term health, social, and economic consequences. Young patients often experience a prolonged asymptomatic phase, leading to delayed diagnosis and presentation in advanced stages. There is limited region-specific data on the clinical profile, etiological spectrum, and risk factors of CKD in young populations in eastern India Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Postgraduate Department of General Medicine and the Department of Nephrology at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha, from April 2023 to June 2024. A total of 20 young patients aged 15–24 years diagnosed with CKD were included after obtaining informed consent. Patients with acute infections, liver failure, congestive heart failure, pregnancy, solitary kidney, or obstructive renal pathology were excluded. Detailed clinical history, physical examination, and anthropometric measurements were recorded using a predesigned semi-structured proforma. Laboratory investigations included complete blood count, renal function tests, electrolytes, inflammatory markers, lipid profile, random blood sugar, and immunological tests where indicated. Imaging studies, renal artery Doppler, and renal biopsy were performed as required. Results: The study population showed a marked male predominance (70%), with a male-to-female ratio of 2.33:1. Hypertensive nephrosclerosis (35%) and diabetic nephropathy (30%) were the leading etiologies, followed by chronic glomerulonephritis (20%). The most common presenting symptoms were dyspnea (80%), periorbital edema (75%), anorexia (70%), nausea and vomiting (70%), and oliguria (60%). Pallor and bilateral pedal edema were the most frequent clinical signs (90% each). Tobacco use (60%), alcohol consumption (40%), and smoking (30%) were the major modifiable risk factors identified. A significant proportion of patients presented in advanced stages, with 35% in stage IV and 45% in stage V CKD. Hypertension (35%), diabetes mellitus (30%), and cardiovascular disease (30%) were the most common comorbidities. Conclusion: Chronic kidney disease imposes a substantial burden on young individuals, with most patients presenting in advanced stages and exhibiting significant comorbidities and lifestyle-related risk factors. Early detection, targeted screening, lifestyle modification, and effective management of hypertension and diabetes are crucial to reducing disease progression and improving long-term outcomes. This study underscores the need for strengthened public health strategies and further large-scale research to better understand and address CKD in young populations.