What is the primary cause of chronic kidney disease in adults?

The primary cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in adults is diabetes mellitus. Diabetes, particularly type 2, leads to a condition called diabetic nephropathy, where high blood sugar levels cause damage to the blood vessels in the kidneys over time. This damage impairs the kidneys' ability to filter waste efficiently, ultimately resulting in decreased kidney function and an increased risk of progression to end-stage renal disease.

In the context of CKD, diabetes not only affects the kidneys directly but also contributes to other complications such as hypertension, which is commonly associated with diabetic patients and can further worsen kidney function. While hypertension is a significant risk factor for CKD and can also lead to kidney disease, it is often secondary to diabetes in the disease process. Knowing the prevalence and impact of diabetes allows healthcare providers to target prevention strategies more effectively, particularly in at-risk populations. The other options, while relevant to renal health, do not have the same level of direct impact or prevalence as diabetes mellitus in the context of chronic kidney disease.