Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is becoming a global health concern. The
high percentage of people living with obesity and diabetes mellitus are part of the
reason for the high prevalence of CKD. In the United States, the obesity epidemic
disproportionally affects minority populations. In this chapter, we will review the
epidemiology of obesity and diabetes and explore their link to CKD. We will also
define CKD, and examine the increasing global burden of obesity, diabetes and CKD.
We will discuss ethnic and gender disparities in these conditions and in the care
received by minority patients. Finally, we will suggest management strategies to slow
the progression to end stage renal disease particularly in vulnerable populations.
Keywords: Chronic Kidney Disease, Diabetes, Health Care Disparities, Obesity,
Public Health.
