Published in PLOS One on 2026-08-13, this study is presented as an attributed evidence briefing. The excerpts below are the original researchers’ words, reproduced under their Creative Commons Attribution licence. HealthSignal has selected the abstract and, where needed, opening background paragraphs; the complete methods, results, limitations and references remain in the linked paper.
Original authors: Getaneh Atikilt Yemata, Birhanemaskal Malkamu, Fisseha Nigussie Dagnew, Mebratu Libanos, Tewodros Wossen Gemechu, Marelign Tilahun, Wondimnew Desalegn Addis, Mulu Tiruneh, Jen Edwards, Jianhong Zhou
Source: PLOS One • DOI 10.1371/journal.pone.0355483
Read the complete primary study ↗ · Creative Commons Attribution licence
From the researchers
Abstract
Chronic kidney disease is a major public health concern worldwide. Despite the well-established link between hypertension and chronic kidney disease, early detection and management of chronic kidney disease among hypertension patients in primary healthcare settings remain inadequate. Moreover, studies on the progression and predictors of chronic kidney disease among hypertensive individuals in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area, are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess chronic kidney disease progression rate, incidence, and predictors among hypertensive patients in South Gondar Zone hospitals in Ethiopia.
A retrospective follow-up study was conducted among the medical records of 510 hypertensive patients in South Gondar Zone hospitals, North West Ethiopia, from September 2019 to June 2024, which was selected through simple random sampling technique. Data were collected via a structured checklist with an Android-based Kobo collection toolbox from the medical charts. EPI data version 4.2 and STATA version 17 were used for data entry and analysis. Kaplan‒Meier, log-rank tests, and a Cox proportional hazard regression model were used for data analysis.
Progression to chronic kidney disease occurred at a median of 46 months (IQR:37–55) in hypertension patients. The incidence rate of chronic kidney disease among hypertensive patients was 9.45 (95% CI: 8.07, 11.01) per 1000 person-month observations. Uncontrolled blood pressure (AHR = 1.52, 95% CI: 1.05–2.20), obesity (AHR = 2.56, 95%CI: 1.63–4.01), and high triglyceride levels (AHR = 1.72, 95%CI: 1.03–2.91) were significant predictors of rapid progression of chronic kidney disease among hypertensive patients as compared with their counterparts.
Hypertensive patients in this study progressed to chronic kidney disease more rapidly as compared to other studies. This could be explained by obesity, uncontrolled blood pressure, and high triglyceride levels. Routine screening of triglyceride levels and lifestyle modifications that target obesity reduction and impact blood pressure control is recommended.
Introduction
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition characterized by a progressive decrease in kidney function over time that results in decreased kidney capacity to excrete water-soluble waste products and adjust water, electrolytes, and acid-base balance [1]. It affects millions of adults, particularly those with diabetes and hypertension [2], ranging from early Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) decline to kidney failure, with hypertension as a main contributing factor [3,4].
CKD is a global issue, and it is increasingly common worldwide, affecting 10% of the world’s population (over 85 million people). Moreover, CKD is a growing non communicable disease, more common in women 14% [5]. Although there are different and complex causes of CKD, its early signs are frequently subtle and rare [6]. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicted that CKD would be the fifth most prevalent chronic disease by 2040 [7].
Reading this evidence
Use the full paper to check the study design, participant selection, comparator and outcome definitions before drawing a practical conclusion. An association does not by itself show cause and effect. A reported performance measure needs its denominator and uncertainty. A finding from a particular facility, sample or time period should retain that scope when it is discussed elsewhere.
This briefing makes the source accessible within the wider hospital systems desk. It does not assess an individual patient or certify a product. When considering relevance to another health system, examine the original authors’ account of context and limitations, then seek local implementation evidence. The related reporting below provides other studies to read alongside this one; it is a topic connection, rather than a claim that their results are directly comparable.
© 2026 Getaneh Atikilt Yemata, Birhanemaskal Malkamu, Fisseha Nigussie Dagnew, Mebratu Libanos, Tewodros Wossen Gemechu, Marelign Tilahun, Wondimnew Desalegn Addis, Mulu Tiruneh, Jen Edwards, Jianhong Zhou. Excerpts reproduced under CC BY. Selection, formatting and contextual notes by HealthSignal. The researchers are the authors of the source study, not members of HealthSignal’s staff.
Explore connected evidence
- Evidence brief: Diabetic kidney disease in northwest Ethiopia: Prevalence and determinants among adults with type 2 diabetes
- Evidence brief: Time to recovery and its predictors among pediatric patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia admitted to public general hospitals in Tigray, Ethiopia, 2025: A prospective follow-up study
- Evidence brief: Attrition and associated factors among patients on chronic antihypertensive therapy at Mulago hospital, Uganda: A mixed method study
