Chronic kidney disease and its relationship with productivity and the economy of Peru, 1990–2021

Introduction. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects 11–15% of adults worldwide, and its impact continues to grow. In Peru, late detection and limited access to treatment worsen its burden. Objective. To analyze the burden of CKD in the Peruvian population, focusing on productivity loss and its economic impact. Methods. Estimates from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study for Peru from 1990 to 2021 were used, disaggregated by age and sex. Indicators included mortality, Years of Life Lost (YLL), Years Lived with Disability (YLD), and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs). Absolute numbers and age-standardized rates with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Economic data from the World Bank were used to estimate the economic burden of productivity loss (EBPL) using the human capital approach. Results were expressed in constant U.S. dollars, Peruvian soles, and as a percentage of GDP. Results. Between 1990 and 2021, mortality, YLL, DALYs, and EBPL due to CKD increased, while YLD decreased. The highest burden was observed in individuals over 80 years old. EBPL increased more than fivefold, both in absolute terms and as a share of GDP. Conclusions: The burden of CKD has increased in Peru, especially among older adults. YLL accounted for most of the DALYs. The gap between the rising economic impact and its weight on GDP highlights the urgent need to strengthen specialized care and health system financing.