Background/Aims: The values for the global prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) are poorly understood. Current classification schemas may overstate the prevalance of CKD. This minireview analyzes the pitfalls in the use of current classification approaches for identifying CKD on a global basis. Methods: Literature review and comment. Results: Published estimates for the global burden of CKD are likely to be incorrect and inflated. Overestimations of prevalence have occurred due to flaws in the classification systems employed and in ascertainment methods. Conclusions: A revision of the current system of diagnosing and classifying CKD is needed in order to determine with greater precision true global burden of CKD. A new system is proposed.