Stage 1 kidney failure, also known as stage 1 chronic kidney disease (CKD), is the early stage of kidney damage, where there is mild impairment of kidney function. At this stage, the kidneys still function sufficiently to maintain overall health, and individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms. The primary indicators of stage 1 CKD are either evidence of kidney damage, such as proteinuria (protein in urine), or a slight decrease in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which measures how well the kidneys filter waste products and excess fluids from the blood. In stage 1 CKD, the GFR is equal to or above 90 milliliters per minute per 1.73 square meters (ml/min/1.73m²). Although the kidneys may show early signs of dysfunction, kidney function is generally still considered adequate at this stage. It is crucial to identify and manage kidney disease at its early stages to prevent progression and preserve kidney function. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a kidney-friendly diet, managing blood pressure, and controlling diabetes (if present), are essential for maintaining kidney health at this stage. Regular monitoring of kidney function through blood and urine tests is crucial, especially for individuals with risk factors for kidney disease, to detect any changes early and implement timely interventions to protect kidney function and overall health. A healthcare professional can provide personalized recommendations based on an individual's medical history and risk factors.