Diabetic nephropathy is the medical term for kidney disease caused by diabetes. It is the most common cause of kidney failure in the United States, accounting for 40 percent of new cases each year, according to the American Diabetes Association. Nephropathy is a slow deterioration of the kidneys, which can impair kidney function and ultimately lead to failure.

The role of the kidneys is to filter out the body’s waste products, water and other chemicals from the blood. As the kidneys become diseased, the filtration system begins to function improperly. As a result, proteins are released into the urine.

All people with diabetes are susceptible to kidney disease, but those who have type 1 diabetes or who develop type 2 diabetes at an early age are at particular risk. Recent research indicates that nephropathy can even affect people with prediabetes.

Nephropathy can be prevented by controlling glucose (blood sugar) and blood pressure, not smoking, and keeping weight and cholesterol at healthy levels.

Nephropathy can eventually lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), when the kidneys are unable to function. At this point, dialysis or kidney transplant are necessary for survival. However, a special urine test can detect diabetic nephropathy early and show the need for treatments such as diet and medication that may prevent or delay further damage.

Recent government statistics show progress against diabetic nephropathy and kidney failure, and scientists are working on new treatments.