Self-management in chronic kidney disease: A comprehensive approach

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 10–13% of the global population and is associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, cardiovascular complications, and healthcare costs. Effective self-management is increasingly recognized as a cornerstone of CKD care. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on self-management in adults with CKD by examining its core components, effectiveness, influencing factors, and clinical implications. A literature search of PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science included studies published up to 2025, including randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, clinical guidelines, and observational studies. The evidence indicates that self-management interventions improve patient knowledge, self-efficacy, medication adherence, lifestyle behaviours, blood pressure control, psychological well-being, and health-related quality of life. Nurse-led education, behavioural counselling, family support, and digital health approaches have shown promising outcomes, although effectiveness varies according to health literacy, patient engagement, socioeconomic conditions, and healthcare access. Future research should focus on standardized, culturally appropriate, and sustainable self-management interventions, particularly in resource-limited settings.