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Secondary hypertension is defined as high blood pressure that is a result of an underlying medical condition. Among the various potential causes of secondary hypertension, kidney disease is recognized as the most common. This stems from the kidneys' critical role in regulating blood pressure by managing fluid balance, electrolyte levels, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). When kidney function is compromised due to conditions such as chronic kidney disease, the body can retain fluid and sodium, which increases blood volume and consequently raises blood pressure.

While other factors like stress, obesity, and smoking can contribute to hypertension, they are generally classified as causes of primary or essential hypertension, which is more prevalent and does not stem from a distinct underlying medical issue. In contrast, kidney disease directly alters physiological processes that maintain blood pressure stability, making it a prominent cause of secondary hypertension.