Therapeutic Focus

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health problem with steadily increasing incidence, prevalence and cost. Key factors driving growth of the CKD market in developed countries include an aging population and the current epidemic of obesity and its associated complications of hypertension and adult-onset diabetes. Nearly 80% of CKD cases have etiologies linked to hypertension and diabetes. The worldwide incidence of adult onset diabetes alone is expected to double by 2030 to approximately 366 million.¹

In North America, there are currently almost 20 million patients with CKD. According to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), more than eight million North American patients suffer from moderate CKD (Stages 3 and 4) to severe CKD (Stage 5). Stages 3 and 4 are characterized by progressively decreasing kidney function as measured by glomerular filtration rate. In Stage 5, kidney function is minimal to altogether absent and patients require regular dialysis or kidney transplant for survival. An estimated 70-90% of CKD patients have vitamin D insufficiency, which can lead to SHPT and resultant debilitating diseases including bone disease, markedly increased bone fracture rates, pervasive soft tissue calcification, cardiovascular disease, muscle weakness and reduced quality of life. Recent evidence suggests that some, if not all, of these adverse outcomes can be prevented, mitigated or reversed by early diagnosis and proper treatment.

1. S Wild et al. Global Prevalence of diabetes, Estimates for the year 2000 and Projections for 2030. Diabetes Care 27:1047–1053, 2004

Prevalence of the Stages of CKD and Related Comorbidities:

*Sources: *NKF 2002, **USRDS 2007 ADR
Levin, A et al., Kidney Int 2007 ;71 :.31-38.
Gonzalez, E et al. Am J Nephrol 2004;24:503-510.
LaClair, R et al..Am J Kidney Disease 2005; 45:1026-1033.

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