A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 cohort studies found that acute kidney injury (AKI) significantly increases the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and mortality compared to patients without AKI. The pooled adjusted hazard ratios were 8.8 for CKD, 3.1 for ESRD, and 2.0 for mortality. The risk increased with the severity of AKI, with severe AKI showing the highest hazard ratios. Baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and pre-existing proteinuria modified these associations. Patients with AKI had higher risks of CKD and ESRD, but not for hospitalization for stroke or all-cause hospitalizations. AKI was also independently associated with cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure. The study highlights AKI as an independent risk factor for CKD, ESRD, and mortality, as well as other non-renal outcomes. Despite the high statistical heterogeneity, the findings suggest a strong association between AKI and long-term renal and non-renal outcomes. The study emphasizes the need for further research to determine if this relationship is modifiable or merely a prognostic factor. The results underscore the importance of addressing AKI to prevent the development of CKD and other complications.A systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 cohort studies found that acute kidney injury (AKI) significantly increases the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and mortality compared to patients without AKI. The pooled adjusted hazard ratios were 8.8 for CKD, 3.1 for ESRD, and 2.0 for mortality. The risk increased with the severity of AKI, with severe AKI showing the highest hazard ratios. Baseline glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and pre-existing proteinuria modified these associations. Patients with AKI had higher risks of CKD and ESRD, but not for hospitalization for stroke or all-cause hospitalizations. AKI was also independently associated with cardiovascular disease and congestive heart failure. The study highlights AKI as an independent risk factor for CKD, ESRD, and mortality, as well as other non-renal outcomes. Despite the high statistical heterogeneity, the findings suggest a strong association between AKI and long-term renal and non-renal outcomes. The study emphasizes the need for further research to determine if this relationship is modifiable or merely a prognostic factor. The results underscore the importance of addressing AKI to prevent the development of CKD and other complications.