Socioeconomic Status and Kidney Disease

Social determinants of health (SDoH) are non-medical factors shaped by the socioeconomic status of individuals or communities that influence the onset and progression of diseases and affect their outcomes. We have narratively analyzed the most important findings relating chronic kidney disease (CKD) and SDoH, evaluating the following items: (i) medical care and social determinants of health, (ii) socioeconomic risk for kidney disease at the individual level and (iii) socioeconomic risk for kidney disease at the population level. SDoH can be categorized by how they influence a person’s daily life. Individual factors include personal lifestyle choices such as smoking habits, alcohol consumption, and how a patient spends their non-working time. Community factors include structural elements such as average household income, educational attainment, employment rates, and the quality of the surrounding physical environment. Research consistently shows that a low socioeconomic status is a primary driver of poor clinical outcomes. While healthcare systems vary globally, the negative impact of socioeconomic deprivation on CKD patients remains a constant. Disadvantaged patients experience a faster loss of renal function, and there is a significantly higher incidence of cardiovascular events and mortality compared to those with financial stability. Financial hardship often leads to a “double burden,” where the struggle to afford care triggers a decline in both physical health and mental well-being. To improve patient care, it is essential to raise awareness among healthcare providers regarding the profound impact of these social factors. More precise data and thorough research are needed to fully understand these associations and develop targeted interventions.