Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the 16th leading cause of years of life lost globally, affecting 8% to 16% of the population. It is defined by persistent kidney structure or function abnormalities, such as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² or albuminuria ≥30 mg per 24 hours, lasting more than 3 months. CKD is most commonly caused by diabetes and hypertension in developed countries, but other causes are common in low- and middle-income regions. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes like cardiovascular disease, end-stage kidney disease, and death. CKD management includes cardiovascular risk reduction, treatment of albuminuria, avoidance of nephrotoxins, and adjustments to drug dosing. Patients require monitoring for complications such as hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, and anemia. Those at high risk of CKD progression should be referred to a nephrologist. Primary care clinicians play a vital role in CKD diagnosis, staging, and referral. Screening is important for early detection, especially in high-risk populations. Risk factors include race, low education, and socioeconomic status. Genetic factors, such as APOL1 risk alleles, also contribute to CKD risk. Management of CKD involves reducing cardiovascular risk through statins, blood pressure control, and avoiding nephrotoxins. Hypertension and diabetes management are also critical. Dietary management is controversial, but protein restriction may help slow CKD progression. Monitoring eGFR and albuminuria is essential for tracking CKD progression. Anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and bone disorders are common complications. Referral to a nephrologist is recommended for high-risk patients. Kidney replacement therapy is considered when CKD progresses to end-stage renal disease. Early referral and management are crucial for improving outcomes in CKD patients.Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the 16th leading cause of years of life lost globally, affecting 8% to 16% of the population. It is defined by persistent kidney structure or function abnormalities, such as a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m² or albuminuria ≥30 mg per 24 hours, lasting more than 3 months. CKD is most commonly caused by diabetes and hypertension in developed countries, but other causes are common in low- and middle-income regions. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes like cardiovascular disease, end-stage kidney disease, and death. CKD management includes cardiovascular risk reduction, treatment of albuminuria, avoidance of nephrotoxins, and adjustments to drug dosing. Patients require monitoring for complications such as hyperkalemia, metabolic acidosis, and anemia. Those at high risk of CKD progression should be referred to a nephrologist. Primary care clinicians play a vital role in CKD diagnosis, staging, and referral. Screening is important for early detection, especially in high-risk populations. Risk factors include race, low education, and socioeconomic status. Genetic factors, such as APOL1 risk alleles, also contribute to CKD risk. Management of CKD involves reducing cardiovascular risk through statins, blood pressure control, and avoiding nephrotoxins. Hypertension and diabetes management are also critical. Dietary management is controversial, but protein restriction may help slow CKD progression. Monitoring eGFR and albuminuria is essential for tracking CKD progression. Anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and bone disorders are common complications. Referral to a nephrologist is recommended for high-risk patients. Kidney replacement therapy is considered when CKD progresses to end-stage renal disease. Early referral and management are crucial for improving outcomes in CKD patients.