The true cost of phosphate control in chronic kidney disease
This review finds that high phosphate levels in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), even within the normal range, are associated with inflammation, vascular calcification, and faster disease progression. The authors recommend early interventions to reduce phosphate levels, like dietary changes and phosphate binders, even before hyperphosphatemia becomes clinically evident. Several studies cited are based on animal models, limiting direct translation to humans, and more robust clinical trial data are needed to confirm the benefits of early interventions.