Key result
The sample-size weighted prevalence of CKD stages 3-5 in sub-Saharan Africa was 4.2%, though reliance on single measurements may substantially overestimate this burden.
Why the study?
Population-based data on CKD remain limited in sub-Saharan Africa.
Systematic Review (n=43,997)
Yes
CKD prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa is estimated at 4.2% for stages 3-5, but reliance on single measurements may substantially overestimate the true burden.
Answers are grounded in this paper and cite their sources.
CKD estimates in SSA may substantially overestimate true prevalence without chronicity confirmation; leaves open accurate burden assessment and standardized methods for future studies.
Background In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), population-based data on CKD remain limited. We aimed to synthesize CKD prevalence, risk factors, and methodological heterogeneity in community and primary care populations. Methods We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published in 2015–24. Eligible studies enrolled unselected community or primary care populations in SSA, reported CKD stages 3–5, and applied multivariable risk models. CKD prevalence was synthesized using sample-size weighted estimates stratified by diagnostic method; risk factors were synthesized descriptively. Findings Twenty-two studies from 13 SSA countries (n = 43,997) were included; risk of bias was low in one, moderate in 16, and high in five. Twenty studies used the CKD-EPI 2009 equation. Proteinuria was assessed quantitatively in nine studies, by dipstick in seven, and not assessed in six. Sample-size weighted prevalence estimates were 4.2% (95% CI 4.1–4.4) for CKD stages 3–5, 9.3% (95% CI 9.0–9.7) for stages 1–5, and 8.2% (95% CI 7.9–8.6) for proteinuria. In four studies incorporating confirmatory testing, CKD stages 3–5 prevalence declined from 5.1% (95% CI 4.3–5.9) to 1.8% (95% CI 1.3–2.2), with reduced inter-study heterogeneity. Age, hypertension, diabetes, and HIV were the most consistent risk factors. Interpretation CKD prevalence in SSA approximates global estimates but remains uncertain because of methodological heterogeneity, particularly inconsistent assessment of albuminuria and limited chronicity confirmation. Reliance on single measurements may substantially overestimate CKD prevalence. Standardized, resource-adapted protocols are needed to generate reliable burden estimates and inform kidney health policy and practice. Funding The study was supported by the University Hospital Basel, Freiwillige Akademische Gesellschaft Basel, Novartis Foundation for Medical-Biological Research (Grant No. 23C185), Vontobel Foundation (Grant No. 0377/2025).
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Hodel et al. (2026) conducted a systematic review in Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) (n=43,997). Risk factors including age, hypertension, diabetes, and HIV was evaluated on Prevalence of CKD stages 3-5 (95% CI 4.1-4.4). The sample-size weighted prevalence of CKD stages 3-5 in sub-Saharan Africa was 4.2%, though reliance on single measurements may substantially overestimate this burden.
Synapse has enriched 8 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: