[New concept of chronic kidney disease and blockade of renin-angiotensin system].

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasingly recognized not only as a cause of end-stage renal disease but also as a cause of cardiovascular disease. Importantly, it is intimately associated with non-healthy lifestyles such as obesity, metabolic syndrome, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and heavy drinking. To define CKD direct measurement of GFR or estimation of GFR (eGFR) is required. Japan Society of Nephrology is asking nationwide project to create "original" equation without using ethnic factor to obtain eGFR. Early detection and early treatment are vital to prevent not only CKD progression but also cardiovascular events. A comprehensive health education campaign and screening of the general populace are needed in order to detect CKD early. The control of hypertension, dyslipidemia, proteinuria, obesity, are intervention strategies that retard or prevent progression of CKD. Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system can be beneficial, especially if proteinuria is present.