Nephropathy is a general term for kidney disease or damage, often used to describe the progressive loss of kidney function due to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune disorders, or chronic glomerulonephritis. Diabetic nephropathy is one of the most common forms, characterized by protein in the urine, declining glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and eventual progression to chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal disease. Symptoms of advanced nephropathy can include fatigue, swelling, high blood pressure, and changes in urination, although early stages may be asymptomatic. Treatment focuses on controlling the underlying cause, managing blood pressure, adjusting diet, and sometimes using medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBs. From an insurance standpoint, nephropathy is a major red flag because it signals increased mortality and morbidity risk, especially if kidney function continues to decline.

In underwriting practice, nephropathy is frequently encountered in files for applicants with long-standing diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension. Underwriters evaluate lab results such as creatinine, estimated GFR, and urine protein, along with specialist notes from nephrologists. Mild, stable nephropathy with good control may result in table ratings, while more advanced disease or rapid progression often leads to postponement or decline, particularly for higher face amounts or long-term care coverage. Advisors working with affected clients gather recent lab reports and physician summaries to clarify current status and prognosis. They may also explore simplified-issue or guaranteed-issue options if traditional underwriting is not viable. Educating clients about how nephropathy influences insurance decisions-and how improved control might support better offers at reconsideration-helps manage expectations and encourages proactive health management.