Acute kidney injury (AKI) is characterized by an abrupt loss of kidney function. If left untreated, the condition has a high risk of multiple organ failure and death. The increasing prevalence of AKI is strongly associated with increased early and long-term patient morbidity and mortality, as well as the development of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Every year, there are around 13.3 million cases of AKI. A burden that is on the increase in emerging countries where the annual incidence is estimated to be 11.3 million.
Out of 1.7 million global deaths per year caused by AKI, around 1.4 million occur in low- and middle-income countries. AKI is often preventable and treatable with few, if any, long-term health consequences. Identifying the signs and starting treatment early means more patients will get essential care before it’s too late.
The ISN is actively working to lighten the burden of AKI worldwide. Learn more about our efforts through the 0by25 Initiative and its various actions.