Prepared by: M.M. Zainab Ali Mohsen Al-Khafaji<br /><br />Introduction<br />Kidney failure is a serious health condition that affects the kidneys' ability to filter blood and eliminate waste. In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in the incidence of kidney failure among children, raising concerns about the causes and contributing factors behind this growing health issue. This article reviews the main causes and factors leading to this serious condition.<br /><br />First: Congenital Causes (Genetic and Birth Defects)<br />Congenital abnormalities of the urinary system:<br /><br />Such as obstruction in the ureter or bladder.<br /><br />One of the most common causes of chronic kidney failure in children.<br /><br />Genetic diseases:<br /><br />Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).<br /><br />Alport Syndrome: Affects the basement membrane of the kidneys.<br /><br />Second: Infections and Medical Complications<br />Acute and chronic glomerulonephritis:<br /><br />Occurs as a result of infection or immune disorder.<br /><br />Leads to gradual deterioration in kidney function.<br /><br />Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS):<br /><br />Often caused by a bacterial infection (e.g., E. coli).<br /><br />Causes damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys.<br /><br />Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE):<br /><br />An autoimmune disorder that can affect the kidneys in some children.<br /><br />Third: Environmental and Nutritional Factors<br />Exposure to toxic substances or harmful medications:<br /><br />Such as certain antibiotics or painkillers when used excessively.<br /><br />Heavy metal poisoning (e.g., lead, mercury).<br /><br />Malnutrition or severe dehydration:<br /><br />Can lead to kidney function deterioration, especially in resource-limited settings.<br /><br />Fourth: Other Chronic Diseases<br /><br />Undiagnosed high blood pressure in children.<br /><br />Advanced stages of Type 1 diabetes.<br /><br />Obesity: Recently recognized as a risk factor for kidney failure due to its link with hypertension and insulin resistance.<br /><br />Fifth: Low Medical Awareness and Delayed Diagnosis<br /><br />Many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages due to lack of awareness.<br /><br />Lack of regular screening for at-risk children.<br /><br />Global and Regional Statistics (Approximate)<br />Health reports indicate that chronic kidney failure affects between 15 to 74 children per million globally.<br />In developing countries, the rate is higher due to limited resources and delayed diagnosis.<br /><br />Health and Psychological Impacts<br /><br />The need for early dialysis or kidney transplantation.<br /><br />Effects on physical and mental development.<br /><br />Challenges in education and social life.<br /><br />Significant psychological burden on the child and family.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />Kidney diseases in children are medical conditions that require special attention due to their profound impact on a child’s life. A thorough understanding of the causes and prevalence is the first step toward prevention and early treatment. It is essential to promote public awareness and regular screening, especially for children with a family history or health risk factors.<br /><br />Al-Mustaqbal University the First in Iraq<br/><br/><a href=https://www.linkedin.com/company/college-of-health-medical-techniques/posts/ target=_blank>linkedin College of Health and Medical Techniques</a>