Can chronic kidney failure be prevented?

Yes and no: Diabetes mellitus, the most common condition in adults leading to chronic renal failure, is an example that vigorous management can make a difference. A number of chronic glomerulonephritidis/glomerulopathies, e.g., lupus nephritis, however, often lead to renal failure in spite of aggressive treatment.

Preventing CRF: It all depends upon the condition that is causing your kidneys to fail. Some things can be reversed such as simple dehydration with acute renal failure. Many other things can be slowed down and other conditions cannot be reversed. So, it really comes down to what the condition is and how early it is in the evolution of the problem.