Chronic Kidney Disease – A Silent Threat Detectable Through General Health Check-ups

Dr. Kubo Shun, General & Family Medicine at Hanoi French Hospital, states:

“The primary causes of CKD are diabetes mellitus and hypertension, which contribute to approximately 30–40% and 20–25% of all cases, respectively. Additionally, other conditions such as glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, or prolonged use of nephrotoxic medications can also lead to progressive kidney dysfunction. In Vietnam, there have been cases of kidney failure linked to the prolonged or improper use of certain supplements.”

CKD not only impairs the kidneys’ ability to excrete toxins and regulate fluid-electrolyte balance but also significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular complications, which are the leading cause of mortality among patients with end-stage renal disease.

Early screening for CKD is especially critical in high-risk groups, including:

• Individuals with diabetes mellitus
• Patients with hypertension
• Adults over the age of 60
• Those with a family history of kidney disease
• Individuals on long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

For these at-risk populations, international medical organizations such as the American Diabetes Association recommend routine renal function testing every 6 to 12 months, depending on individual risk factors.

Diagnosis of CKD is primarily based on estimation of Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) and detection of albuminuria (the presence of albumin in urine).

A diagnosis of CKD is confirmed when eGFR remains below 60 mL/min/1.73m² for at least three months, or there is persistent evidence of kidney damage, such as elevated albuminuria, even with normal filtration function. Renal ultrasound is also used to identify structural abnormalities, including reduced kidney size, loss of corticomedullary differentiation, or abnormal renal cysts.

In most cases, CKD progresses silently, with no noticeable symptoms until advanced renal impairment develops.

Therefore, a comprehensive health check-up is not only a means of assessing current health but also a proactive tool for the early detection of chronic diseases like CKD, allowing for timely and effective medical intervention.

At Hanoi French Hospital, we offer comprehensive health check-up packages designed to help you detect potential health risks early and prevent dangerous complications.

With a team of highly experienced, internationally trained doctors, state-of-the-art medical equipment from leading brands such as GE, Abbott, Siemens, and Roche, along with a multidisciplinary approach combining internal medicine and specialist care, you will receive thorough consultations and expert guidance to protect your health and the well-being of your family.

Find out more about our comprehensive health check-up packages at: https://www.hfh.com.vn/en/health-check/

Contact our HOTLINE: 024.35771100 or MESSAGE us on our Facebook Fanpage “Hanoi French Hospital” or Zalo OA zalo.me/2008009049335817955 for consultation and special offers!