Chronic Kidney Disease Testing Among Primary Care Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Across 24 U.S. Health Care Organizations

Frequency and sequence of proteinuria positivity and clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes: A nationwide cohort study

AIMS

Proteinuria is a risk factor for end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in patients with diabetes. However, the clinical implications of fluctuating proteinuria are unclear. We investigated the proteinuria burden and the risks of clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes using the Korean National Health Insurance Service database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included patients with diabetes who participated in a national health screening between 2015 and 2016, with records of three previous health screenings. Each end-point was followed until 31 December 2022. The proteinuria burden (range: 0-4) was defined as the cumulative number of positive urine protein dipstick tests at each health screening. The outcomes included ESKD, CVD and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Among 1 264 699 patients, 86.3%, 9.4%, 2.5%, 1.2% and 0.6% had proteinuria burdens of 0 to 4, respectively. The proteinuria burden and risks of clinical outcomes had dose-dependent associations; compared to proteinuria burden 0, the adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of proteinuria burdens 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively, were as follows: ESKD, 3.539 (3.326-3.766), 9.373 (8.816-9.965), 14.539 (13.652-15.484) and 19.704 (18.412-21.087); CVD, 1.247 (1.214-1.280), 1.530 (1.465-1.599), 1.815 (1.713-1.923) and 2.032 (1.883-2.192); and all-cause mortality, 1.335 (1.302-1.369), 1.703 (1.635-1.774), 1.959 (1.855-2.068) and 2.092 (1.945-2.250). Within the same proteinuria burdens, late-positive proteinuria was associated with worse outcomes than early-positive proteinuria.

CONCLUSIONS

The proteinuria burden was dose-dependently associated with clinical outcomes in patients with diabetes. Even a single positive dipstick test requires active management.

Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early to Protect Kidney Health

Early identification of kidney disease can protect kidney health, prevent kidney disease progression and related complications, reduce cardiovascular disease risk, and decrease mortality. We must ask "Are your kidneys ok?" using serum creatinine to estimate kidney function and urine albumin to assess for kidney and endothelial damage. Evaluation for causes and risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) includes testing for diabetes and measurement of blood pressure and body mass index (BMI). This World Kidney Day, we assert that case-finding in high-risk populations, or even population-level screening, can decrease the burden of kidney disease globally. Early-stage CKD is asymptomatic and simple to test for and recent paradigm-shifting CKD treatments such as sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors dramatically improve outcomes and favor the cost-benefit analysis for screening or case-finding programs. Despite this, numerous barriers exist, including resource allocation, healthcare funding, healthcare infrastructure, and healthcare-professional and population awareness of kidney disease. Coordinated efforts by major kidney non-governmental organizations to prioritize the kidney health agenda for governments and aligning early detection efforts with other current programs will maximize efficiencies.

Treatment strategies to reduce cardiovascular risk in persons with chronic kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent and progressive condition associated with significant mortality and morbidity. Diabetes is a common cause of CKD, and both diabetes and CKD increase the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death in individuals with CKD. This review will discuss the importance of early detection of CKD and prompt pharmacological intervention to slow CKD progression and delay the development of CVD for improving outcomes. Early CKD is often asymptomatic, and diagnosis usually requires laboratory testing. The combination of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) measurements is used to diagnose and determine CKD severity. Guidelines recommend at least annual screening for CKD in at-risk individuals. While eGFR testing rates are consistently high, rates of UACR testing remain low. This results in underdiagnosis and undertreatment of CKD, leaving many individuals at risk of CKD progression and CVD. UACR testing is an actionable component of the CKD definition. A four-pillar treatment approach for slowing the progression of diabetic kidney disease is suggested, comprising a renin-angiotensin-system (RAS) inhibitor, a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist, and the nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone. The combination of these agents provides a greater cardiorenal risk reduction compared with RAS inhibitors alone. Early detection of CKD and prompt intervention with guideline-directed medical therapy are crucial for reducing CVD risk in individuals with CKD and diabetes. Evidence from ongoing studies will advance our understanding of optimal therapy in this population.

Risk-directed management of chronic kidney disease

The timely and rational institution of therapy is a key step towards reducing the global burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a heterogeneous entity with varied aetiologies and diverse trajectories, which include risk of kidney failure but also cardiovascular events and death. Developments in the past decade include substantial progress in CKD risk prediction, driven in part by the accumulation of electronic health records data. In addition, large randomized clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in reducing adverse events in CKD, greatly expanding the options for effective therapy. Alongside angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, these classes of medication have been proposed to be the four pillars of CKD pharmacotherapy. However, all of these drug classes are underutilized, even in individuals at high risk. Leveraging prognostic estimates to guide therapy could help clinicians to prescribe CKD-related therapies to those who are most likely to benefit from their use. Risk-based CKD management thus aligns patient risk and care, allowing the prioritization of absolute benefit in determining therapeutic selection and timing. Here, we discuss CKD prognosis tools, evidence-based management and prognosis-guided therapies.

Management of Diabetes in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

BACKGROUND

Patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at increased risk of kidney disease progression and cardiovascular events.

METHODS

In this article, we will summarize the 2022 consensus report by the ADA and KDIGO on diabetes management in CKD and include newly available evidence to assist health care professionals in providing optimal care to patients living with diabetes and CKD.

RESULTS

Comprehensive care strategies include lifestyle interventions, optimal glycemic, blood pressure, weight, and lipid management, and preferential use of therapies with proven heart and kidney beneficial effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This article offers a concise overview of the multiple strategies aimed at reducing cardiovascular and kidney risk among people with diabetes and CKD, as recommended by multiple societies.

The interplay between heart failure and chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure (HF) are two globally prevalent, independent, long-term conditions, which often coexist in an individual and display a bidirectional yet interconnected relationship. The presence of CKD often leads to the development of HF and vice versa, which propagates the worsening of each disease, reflecting an intertwined disease cycle. Both HF and CKD share common risk factors, such as increasing age, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and smoking. Data show that approximately half of all people with HF also have CKD, which impacts patient burden and quality of life due to a significantly greater risk of hospitalization and death, compared with those that have either CKD or HF. To maximize treatment effectiveness in individuals with both HF and CKD, healthcare professionals should recognize that these two diseases are systemic conditions, representing organ-specific manifestations of similar underlying processes. It is also essential to understand the role of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, the nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in managing these conditions. Lifestyle modifications should also be recommended. This review discusses factors contributing to the interplay between HF and CKD and the key role of healthcare professionals in providing appropriate treatment for the co-existing diseases.

Using guideline-directed medical therapies to improve kidney and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease

PURPOSE

An estimated 37 million people currently live with chronic kidney disease in the US, which places them at increased risk for kidney disease progression, cardiovascular disease, and mortality. This review discusses current standard-of-care management of patients with chronic kidney disease, identifies key gaps in care, and briefly highlights how pharmacists can address gaps in care as members of the multidisciplinary care team.

SUMMARY

Recent advances in guideline-directed medical therapies for patients with chronic kidney disease, including agents from the sodium-glucose cotransporter, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, and nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist classes, can dramatically improve cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic care and outcomes. Unfortunately, gaps in screening, diagnosis, and implementation of recommended therapies persist. Team-based models of care-inclusive of the person with chronic kidney disease-have the potential to significantly improve care and outcomes for people with chronic kidney disease by addressing current gaps in care.

CONCLUSION

As members of the multidisciplinary care team, pharmacists can play a critical role in addressing current gaps in care, including optimized use of guideline-directed medical therapies, in patients with chronic kidney disease.

The Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (Non-HDL-C) to HDL-C Ratio (NHHR) and Its Association with Chronic Kidney Disease in Chinese Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Preliminary Study

Objectives: The objective of this study was to examine the association between non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (NHHR) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Chinese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: This study originated from a survey carried out in Zhejiang Province, located in eastern China, between March and November 2018. To explore the relationship between NHHR and CKD, a multivariable logistic regression model was employed. The dose-response relationship was assessed using restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis, while generalized additive models (GAMs) were applied to examine the associations between NHHR and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) as well as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Subgroup analyses were performed across various demographic and clinical categories to assess the consistency of the NHHR-CKD association. The optimal NHHR cutoff for CKD diagnosis, its predictive accuracy, and its comparison with its components and HbA1c were determined through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: The study enrolled 1756 participants, including 485 individuals with CKD and 1271 without CKD. Multivariable logistic regression revealed a significant positive association between NHHR and CKD, with each standard deviation (SD) increase in NHHR linked to a 23% higher odds of CKD (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.09-1.37) after adjusting for potential confounders. When comparing quartiles, the fully adjusted ORs for Q2, Q3, and Q4 were 1.29 (0.92-1.79), 1.31 (0.94-1.83), and 1.87 (1.34-2.60), respectively, relative to Q1 (p for trend < 0.01). RCS analysis confirmed a linear dose-response relationship between NHHR and CKD in both sexes (p for nonlinearity > 0.05). GAMs indicated a significant positive correlation between NHHR and UACR (ρ = 0.109, p < 0.001) but no significant association with eGFR (ρ = -0.016, p = 0.502). Subgroup analyses demonstrated consistent associations across most subgroups, except for the 18-44 years age group, the well-controlled glycemic group, and the non-alcohol drinking group (p > 0.05). ROC curve analysis identified an optimal NHHR cutoff of 3.48 for CKD prediction, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.606 (95% CI: 0.577-0.635). Notably, NHHR outperformed its individual components and HbA1c in predictive performance. Conclusions: This study revealed a linear link between higher NHHR levels and increased CKD prevalence in Chinese T2DM patients. NHHR may also serve as a potential complementary biomarker for early CKD detection, though further prospective studies are needed to confirm its predictive value and clinical utility in high-risk T2DM populations.

Nomenclature of renal involvement in diabetes mellitus: unify to manage diversity

Diabetes mellitus is the most common cause of chronic kidney disease leading to kidney failure and premature death. Over the years, the nomenclature of kidney involvement in diabetes mellitus has evolved, driven both by the understanding that the phenotype may be more diverse than initially thought and by pragmatism. In clinical practice, most patients with diabetes mellitus do not undergo a comprehensive work-up (including kidney biopsy and genetic testing) to exclude the presence or coexistence of additional factors or other kidney diseases. Furthermore, the inclusion criteria for successful kidney protection clinical trials that are the basis of current guidelines covered a wide range of kidney phenotypes under the label of "diabetes and kidney disease," without requiring proactive efforts to exclude other nephropathies. The aim of this review is to provide a critical review of the most common chronic kidney disease phenotypes in the context of diabetes mellitus and discuss the evolving nomenclature. Various topics are discuss diabetic kidney disease, classic diabetic nephropathy, regression of albuminuria, rapid progression, non-albuminuric and non-proteinuric kidney disease, the connections between and the impact of aging on these phenotypes and a glimpse into future phenotypes resulting from proactive prevention rather than reactive treatment of kidney disease in diabetes.

Are Your Kidneys Ok? Detect Early to Protect Kidney Health

Early identification of kidney disease can protect kidney health, prevent kidney disease progression and related complications, reduce cardiovascular disease risk, and decrease mortality. We must ask "Are your kidneys ok?" using serum creatinine to estimate kidney function and urine albumin to assess for kidney and endothelial damage. Evaluation for causes and risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) includes testing for diabetes and measurement of blood pressure and body mass index. This World Kidney Day we assert that case-finding in high-risk populations, or even population level screening, can decrease the burden of kidney disease globally. Early-stage CKD is asymptomatic and simple to test for, and recent paradigm shifting CKD treatments such as sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors dramatically improve outcomes and favor the cost-benefit analysis for screening or case-finding programs. Despite this, numerous barriers exist, including resource allocation, health care funding, health care infrastructure, and health care professional and population awareness of kidney disease. Coordinated efforts by major kidney nongovernmental organizations to prioritize the kidney health agenda for governments and aligning early detection efforts with other current programs will maximize efficiencies.

Are your kidneys Ok? Detect early to protect kidney health

Early identification of kidney disease can protect kidney health, prevent kidney disease progression and related complications, reduce cardiovascular disease risk, and decrease mortality. We must ask "Are your kidneys ok?" using serum creatinine to estimate kidney function and urine albumin to assess for kidney and endothelial damage. Evaluation for causes and risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) includes testing for diabetes and measurement of blood pressure and body mass index. This World Kidney Day we assert that case-finding in high-risk populations, or even population level screening, can decrease the burden of kidney disease globally. Early-stage CKD is asymptomatic and simple to test for, and recent paradigm shifting CKD treatments such as sodium glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitors dramatically improve outcomes and favor the cost-benefit analysis for screening or case-finding programs. Despite this, numerous barriers exist, including resource allocation, health care funding, health care infrastructure, and health care professional and population awareness of kidney disease. Coordinated efforts by major kidney nongovernmental organizations to prioritize the kidney health agenda for governments and aligning early detection efforts with other current programs will maximize efficiencies.

KDOQI US Commentary on the KDIGO 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of CKD

The Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) convened a work group to review the 2024 KDIGO (Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes) guideline for the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The KDOQI Work Group reviewed the KDIGO guideline statements and practice points and provided perspective for implementation within the context of clinical practice in the United States. In general, the KDOQI Work Group concurs with several recommendations and practice points proposed by the KDIGO guidelines regarding CKD evaluation, risk assessment, and management options (both lifestyle and medications) for slowing CKD progression, addressing CKD-related complications, and improving cardiovascular outcomes. The KDOQI Work Group acknowledges the growing evidence base to support the use of several novel agents such as sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for several CKD etiologies, and glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists for type 2 CKD in setting of diabetes. Further, KDIGO guidelines emphasize the importance of team-based care which was also recognized by the work group as a key factor to address the growing CKD burden. In this commentary, the Work Group has also assessed and discussed various barriers and potential opportunities for implementing the recommendations put forth in the 2024 KDIGO guidelines while the scientific community continues to focus on enhancing early identification of CKD and discovering newer therapies for managing kidney disease.

Treating chronic kidney disease in Danish primary care: results from the observational ATLAS study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the clinical characteristics, comorbidity, and medical treatment in a primary care population with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Additionally, to investigate how primary care physicians (PCPs) diagnose, manage and treat impaired kidney function, including uptake of cardio-renoprotective renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis) and sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is).

DESIGN

An observational study of CKD prevalence, treatment patterns and comorbidities in primary care based on patient record data combined with a questionnaire on diagnosis, management and treatment of impaired kidney function in a real-world, primary care setting.

SETTING

In all 128 primary care clinics in Denmark of 211 randomly invited and a quetionnaire completed by 125/128 participating PCPs.

METHODS

A computerized selection identified 12 random individuals with CKD per clinic with ≥ 2 measurements of eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or UACR > 30 mg/g within two years (N = 1 497). Pre-specified data collected from individual electronic health records included demographics, clinical variables, comorbidities, and relevant prescribed medications.

RESULTS

Of the CKD study population (N = 1 497), 80% had hypertension, 32% diabetes (DM), 13% heart failure (HF), 59% no DM/HF. ACEis/ARBs were prescribed to 65%, statins to 56%, SGTL2is to 14%, and MRAs to 8% of all individuals. Treatment patterns differed between individuals with varying comorbidities, e.g., ACEis/ARBs usage was higher in DM (76%) or HF (74%) vs. no DM/HF (58%), as was statin usage (76% in DM vs. 45% in no DM/HF). SGTL2i usage in no DM/HF was low. Most PCPs identified CKD using eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (62%) or UACR > 30 mg/g (58%) and 62% reported initiating treatment to retard kidney function decline.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite good PCP awareness and wish to use relevant guidelines, a gap exists in implementation of cardio-renoprotective treatment, especially in individuals without DM/HF. This offers an opportunity for clear recommendations to PCPs to optimize early cardio-renal protection in individuals with CKD.

Risk prediction modeling for cardiorenal clinical outcomes in patients with non-diabetic CKD using US nationwide real-world data

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem, affecting over 840 million individuals. CKD is linked to higher mortality and morbidity, partially mediated by higher cardiovascular risk and worsening kidney function. This study aimed to identify risk factors and develop risk prediction models for selected cardiorenal clinical outcomes in patients with non-diabetic CKD.

METHODS

The study included adults with non-diabetic CKD (stages 3 or 4) from the Optum® Clinformatics® Data Mart US healthcare claims database. Three outcomes were investigated: composite outcome of kidney failure/need for dialysis, hospitalization for heart failure, and worsening of CKD from baseline. Multivariable time-to-first-event risk prediction models were developed for each outcome using swarm intelligence methods. Model discrimination was demonstrated by stratifying cohorts into five risk groups and presenting the separation between Kaplan-Meier curves for these groups.

RESULTS

The prediction model for kidney failure/need for dialysis revealed stage 4 CKD (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.01-2.08), severely increased albuminuria-A3 (HR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.45-1.72), metastatic solid tumor (HR = 1.58, 95% CI = 1.52-1.64), anemia (HR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.41-1.44), and proteinuria (HR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.36-1.43) as the strongest risk factors. History of heart failure (HR = 2.42, 95% CI = 2.37-2.48), use of loop diuretics (HR = 1.65, 95% CI = 1.62-1.69), severely increased albuminuria-A3 (HR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.33-1.80), atrial fibrillation or flutter (HR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.50-1.56), and stage 4 CKD (HR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.44-1.52) were the greatest risk factors for hospitalization for heart failure. Stage 4 CKD (HR = 2.90, 95% CI = 2.83-2.97), severely increased albuminuria-A3 (HR = 2.30, 95% CI = 2.09-2.53), stage 3 CKD (HR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.71-1.77), polycystic kidney disease (HR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.60-1.76), and proteinuria (HR = 1.55, 95% CI = 1.50-1.60) were the main risk factors for worsening of CKD stage from baseline. Female gender and normal-to-mildly increased albuminuria-A1 were found to be associated with lower risk in all prediction models for patients with non-diabetic CKD stage 3 or 4.

CONCLUSIONS

Risk prediction models to identify individuals with non-diabetic CKD at high risk of adverse cardiorenal outcomes have been developed using routinely collected data from a US healthcare claims database. The models may have potential for broad clinical applications in patient care.

The health-economic impact of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio testing for chronic kidney disease in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes

AIMS/INTRODUCTION

This analysis seeks to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio testing compared with urine protein-creatinine ratio testing and no urine testing for the identification of kidney damage in individuals with type 2 diabetes who have, or are at risk of, chronic kidney disease in Japan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A health-economic model estimated the clinical and economic consequences of different tests to evaluate kidney damage in line with Japanese guidelines, taking a Japanese healthcare perspective. Differences in the diagnostic performance of tests were considered by the integration of real-world Japanese data. Outcomes were considered over a lifetime horizon, and included costs, prevented dialyses, life years gained, quality-adjusted life years, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios.

RESULTS

Repeated urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio testing was found to be cost-effective compared with both urine protein-creatinine ratio testing and no urine testing, yielding incremental cost-effectiveness ratios of ¥2,652,693 and ¥2,460,453, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Repeated urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio testing is cost-effective compared with urine protein-creatinine ratio testing and no urine testing in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes, supporting existing clinical evidence that albumin-to-creatinine ratio testing should be used more widely, particularly compared with other urine tests such as urine protein-creatinine ratio testing.

Screening and Diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease in Adults Living With Diabetes: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network

OBJECTIVES

In Canada, regional evaluations of screening practices for chronic kidney disease (CKD) among people with diabetes highlight areas for improvement; however, national estimates are notably absent. Estimates of CKD incidence often discount the expected decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) associated with age; age-adaptive thresholds may help account for this. We describe the frequency of screening and diagnosis of CKD among adults with diabetes from a nationally representative primary care cohort.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we used electronic medical record data from the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network. We followed adult patients (≥18 years of age) with diabetes without CKD at baseline for 5 years starting in 2014. We determined the frequency of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACr) and/or eGFR testing over time. We identified incident CKD diagnoses based on eGFR measurements using fixed-threshold and age-adaptive definitions and quantified the incidence proportion and rate.

RESULTS

We analyzed records from 37,604 patients with diabetes. Only 13% of patients had yearly eGFR and uACr testing for CKD, although roughly 60% had non-yearly use of both tests in 5 years. eGFR testing was performed more frequently than uACr testing (94.1% vs 76.6% having testing over follow-up). We found increased incidence proportions (14.6% vs 6.0%) and rates (33.1 vs 13.4 diagnoses per 1,000 person-years) of CKD using the fixed-threshold compared with age-adaptive definition.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study presents the first national understanding of screening practices for CKD among people with diabetes in Canada. Specifically, increased use of uACr testing should be encouraged for early detection of changes in kidney function.

Clinical Need for Point-of-Care Testing for Diabetes in Clinical and Laboratory Improvement Amendments-Waived Settings

Point-of-care testing (POCT) has been used in multiple care settings for acute disease and, to a lesser extent, chronic disease testing. All POCT is regulated under the Clinical and Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA). CLIA-waived POCT requires no proficiency testing and can be carried out by nonlaboratory personnel. This review describes the benefits and limitations of POCT for cardiometabolic diseases and related conditions. It also explores the current U.S. regulatory environment for CLIA-waived POCT, highlighting the need for increased access.

Trends of Blood Pressure Control in Chronic Kidney Disease Among US Adults: Findings From NHANES 2011 to 2020

BACKGROUND

Hypertension afflicts most patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and contributes to kidney disease progression, cardiovascular disease, and death in this patient population. The evidence and clinical guidelines support lowering blood pressure (BP) goals in patients with CKD. We evaluated if BP control improved among US adults with CKD.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey) for the periods 2011 to 2014, 2015 to 2016, and 2017 to 2020, we identified individuals with CKD defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate 20 to 59 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or urinary albumin/creatinine ratio≥30 mg/g. The following systolic BP categories were evaluated: <120, 120 to 129, 130 to 139, and ≥140 mm Hg. All measures were tested for differences between year groups accounting for sample strata, clusters, and weights. During the periods of 2011 to 2014, 2015 to 2016, and 2017 to 2020, the prevalence of CKD was stable at 14%, 13%, and 13%, respectively (P=0.4). Among those with CKD, the proportion of individuals with self-reported hypertension or taking BP medications increased from 66 in 2011 to 2014, to 69 and 86% in 2015 to 2016 and 2017 to 2020, respectively (P<0.0001). Although the number of BP medications prescribed increased significantly over time, less than half of the individuals with CKD had well-controlled BP based on the current guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Although BP recognition has improved among those with CKD, a significant number of individuals with CKD do not meet their BP goal.

Barriers to early diagnosis of chronic kidney disease and use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors for renal protection: A comprehensive review and call to action

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 13% of people globally, including 20%-48% with type 2 diabetes (T2D), resulting in significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. There is an urgent need to increase early screening and intervention for CKD. We are experts in diabetology and nephrology in Central Europe and Israel. Herein, we review evidence supporting the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for kidney protection and discuss barriers to early CKD diagnosis and treatment, including in our respective countries. SGLT2 inhibitors exert cardiorenal protective effects, demonstrated in the renal outcomes trials (EMPA-KIDNEY, DAPA-CKD, CREDENCE) of empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, and canagliflozin in patients with CKD. EMPA-KIDNEY demonstrated cardiorenal efficacy across the broadest renal range, regardless of T2D status. Renoprotective evidence also comes from large real-world studies. International guidelines recommend first-line SGLT2 inhibitors for patients with T2D and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥20 mL/min/1.73 m2, and that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists may also be administered if required for additional glucose control. Although these guidelines recommend at least annual eGFR and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio screening for patients with T2D, observational studies suggest that only half are screened. Diagnosis is hampered by asymptomatic early CKD and under-recognition among patients with T2D and clinicians, including limited knowledge/use of guidelines and resources. Based on our experience and on the literature, we recommend robust screening programmes, potentially with albuminuria self-testing, and SGLT2 inhibitor reimbursement at general practitioner (GP) and specialist levels. High-tech tools (artificial intelligence, smartphone apps, etc.) are providing exciting opportunities to identify high-risk individuals, self-screen, detect abnormalities in images, and assist with prescribing and treatment adherence. Better education is also needed, alongside provision of concise guidelines, enabling GPs to identify who would benefit from early initiation of renoprotective therapy; although, regardless of current renal function, cardiorenal protection is provided by SGLT2 inhibitor therapy.

Practicalities and importance of assessing urine albumin excretion in type 2 diabetes: A cutting-edge update

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is associated with increased risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD). It is estimated that 40 % of people with diabetes have CKD, which consequently leads to increase in morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is leading cause of CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) globally. On the other hand, DKD is independent risk factor for CVDs, stroke and overall mortality. According to the guidelines, using spot urine sample and assessing urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) are both mandatory methods for screening of CKD in T2D at diagnosis and at least annually thereafter. Diagnosis of CKD is confirmed by persistent albuminuria followed by a progressive decline in eGFR in two urine samples at an interval of 3 to 6 months. However, many patients with T2D remain underdiagnosed and undertreated, so there is an urgent need to improve the screening by detection of albuminuria at all levels of health care. This review discusses the importance of albuminuria as a marker of CKD and cardiorenal risk and provides insights into the practical aspects of methods for determination of albuminuria in routine clinical care of patients with T2D.

The mineralocorticoid receptor in diabetic kidney disease

Diabetes mellitus is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease and its progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is characterized by glomerular hypertrophy, hyperfiltration, inflammation, and the onset of albuminuria, together with a progressive reduction in glomerular filtration rate. This progression is further accompanied by tubulointerstitial inflammation and fibrosis. Factors such as genetic predisposition, epigenetic modifications, metabolic derangements, hemodynamic alterations, inflammation, and inappropriate renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activity contribute to the onset and progression of DKD. In this context, decades of work have focused on glycemic and blood pressure reduction strategies, especially targeting the RAAS to slow disease progression. Although much of the work has focused on targeting angiotensin II, emerging data support that the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) is integral in the development and progression of DKD. Molecular mechanisms linked to the underlying pathophysiological changes derived from MR activation include vascular endothelial and epithelial cell responses to oxidative stress and inflammation. These responses lead to alterations in the microcirculatory environment, the abnormal release of extracellular vesicles, gut dysbiosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and kidney fibrosis. Herein, we present recent experimental and clinical evidence on the MR in DKD onset and progress along with new MR-based strategies for the treatment and prevention of DKD.

The Pattern of Practice in the Management of Early Diabetic Kidney Disease

Background and objectives Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure in various regions worldwide. To detect renal disease in individuals with diabetes, screening typically involves evaluating the glomerular filtration rate and measuring albuminuria. Although there are established guidelines for these screenings, adherence to them varies. This study aims to examine the prevalence of albuminuria screening among adults with diabetes mellitus (DM) and to assess the different practices in managing these patients across primary and tertiary care settings. Methods This cross-sectional observational study involved adult patients with DM attending outpatient clinics in both primary and tertiary care settings. Patient data were gathered using a standardized form, excluding those with established chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were under nephrology care. Results The study included 1,010 patients, with 303 (30%) from primary care clinics and 707 (70%) from tertiary care clinics. The cohort comprised 582 (58%) females, with a median age of 62 years (IQR: 55-70), and approximately 990 (98%) had type 2 DM (T2DM). Annual albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) screening was conducted for 498 out of 1,010 patients (49%) (95% confidence interval {CI}: 46%-52%). Screening compliance was notably higher in primary care settings compared to tertiary care clinics. Older patients (over 60 years) and those with hypertension or cardiac conditions were less likely to undergo screening. Among those screened, 185 of 498 patients (37%) (95% CI: 33%-41%) had abnormal albuminuria (ACR > 3). Conclusion Albuminuria is a significant indicator of progressing renal disease and cardiovascular risk. The annual screening rate for albuminuria in diabetic patients is inadequate. Primary care physicians show better adherence to screening guidelines compared to their tertiary care counterparts. Increasing physician awareness about the importance of screening could improve guideline compliance and mitigate the adverse effects of albuminuria.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in China: Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant long-term complication of diabetes and is a primary contributor to end-stage kidney disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to report comprehensive nationwide data on the prevalence, screening, and awareness rates of CKD in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes, along with associated risk factors.

METHODS

Baseline data analysis of the ongoing prospective, observational IMPROVE study was conducted. The study cohort comprised patients who had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes more than 12 months prior, received at least 1 hypoglycemic medication, and were aged ≥18 years. The participants completed questionnaires and underwent laboratory assessments, including blood and urine samples. The data encompassed patient demographics, medical history, concurrent medications, and comorbidities. Comprehensive evaluations involved physical examinations, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose, 2-hour postprandial blood glucose, fasting blood lipid profile, and urinalysis. Descriptive statistics were applied for data interpretation, and logistic regression analyses were used to identify the CKD-associated risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

A national study from December 2021 to September 2022 enlisted 9672 participants with type 2 diabetes from 45 hospitals that had endocrinology departments. The enrollees were from diverse regions in China, as follows: central (n=1221), east (n=3269), south (n=1474), north (n=2219), and west (n=1489). The prevalence, screening, and awareness rates of CKD among patients with type 2 diabetes were 31% (2997/9672), 27% (810/2997), and 54.8% (5295/9672), respectively. Multivariate binary regression analysis revealed that the CKD risk factors were screening, awareness, smoking, age, diabetes duration, concurrent antihypertensive and microcirculation medications, diabetic complications (foot, retinopathy, and neuropathy), hypertension, elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and suboptimal glycemic control. Subgroup analysis highlighted an increased CKD prevalence among older individuals, those with prolonged diabetes durations, and residents of fourth-tier cities. Residents of urban areas that had robust educational and economic development exhibited relatively high awareness and screening rates. Notably, 24.2% (1717/7107) of patients with an eGFR ≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2 had proteinuria, whereas 3.4% (234/6909) who had a UACR <30 mg/g presented with an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Compared with patients who were cognizant of CKD, those who were unaware of CKD had increased rates of HbA1c ≥7%, total cholesterol >5.18 μmol/L, LDL cholesterol >3.37 μmol/L, BMI ≥30 kg/m2, and hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

In a Chinese population of adults with type 2 diabetes, the CKD prevalence was notable, at 31%, coupled with low screening and awareness rates. Multiple risk factors for CKD have been identified.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05047471; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05047471.

The Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Renal Insufficiency

BACKGROUND

Chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) is becoming more common and has an increasing impact on public health. In Germany, approximately one in ten adults has CRI. Its most serious consequence is generally not the development of end-stage renal failure, but rather the markedly increased cardiovascular risk as kidney function declines.

METHODS

This review is based on the findings of a selective search in PubMed for literature about the treatment options for CRI, and on our overview of the existing guideline recommendations on diagnostic testing. .

RESULTS

Patients with diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension are at especially high risk of developing CRI. For these patients, some of the guidelines recommend regular testing for albuminuria and measurement of the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), though sometimes only when specific risk constellations are present. The treatment of CRI has evolved in recent years. At first, aside from general measures, only RAS inhibitors were available as a specific therapy for CRI. With the extension of the approval of SGLT-2 inhibitors to non-diabetic CRI patients, the options for treatment have become wider. Two randomized controlled trials have revealed the benefit of SGLT-2 inhibitors with respect to their primary combined endpoints: time to a specified eGFR reduction and renal/cardiovascular death (HR 0.61 [0.51; 0.72] and 0.72 [0.64; 0.82]). The potential side effects and contraindications of SGLT-2 inhibitors must be taken into account. A further treatment option for diabetics with CRI has become available with the approval of the non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone.

CONCLUSION

In patients with risk factors, renal function should be regularly tested.

Concordance With Screening and Treatment Guidelines for Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetes

Importance

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an often-asymptomatic complication of type 2 diabetes (T2D) that requires annual screening to diagnose. Patient-level factors linked to inadequate screening and treatment can inform implementation strategies to facilitate guideline-recommended CKD care.

Objective

To identify risk factors for nonconcordance with guideline-recommended CKD screening and treatment in patients with T2D.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study was performed at 20 health care systems contributing data to the US National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network. To evaluate concordance with CKD screening guidelines, adults with an outpatient clinician visit linked to T2D diagnosis between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2020, and without known CKD were included. A separate analysis reviewed prescription of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in adults with CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] of 30-90 mL/min/1.73 m2 and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio [UACR] of 200-5000 mg/g) and an outpatient clinician visit for T2D between October 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020. Data were analyzed from July 8, 2022, through June 22, 2023.

Exposures

Demographics, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory results.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Screening required measurement of creatinine levels and UACR within 15 months of the index visit. Treatment reflected prescription of ACEIs or ARBs and SGLT2 inhibitors within 12 months before or 6 months following the index visit.

Results

Concordance with CKD screening guidelines was assessed in 316 234 adults (median age, 59 [IQR, 50-67] years), of whom 51.5% were women; 21.7%, Black; 10.3%, Hispanic; and 67.6%, White. Only 24.9% received creatinine and UACR screening, 56.5% received 1 screening measurement, and 18.6% received neither. Hispanic ethnicity was associated with lack of screening (relative risk [RR], 1.16 [95% CI, 1.14-1.18]). In contrast, heart failure, peripheral arterial disease, and hypertension were associated with a lower risk of nonconcordance. In 4215 patients with CKD and albuminuria, 3288 (78.0%) received an ACEI or ARB; 194 (4.6%), an SGLT2 inhibitor; and 885 (21.0%), neither therapy. Peripheral arterial disease and lower eGFR were associated with lack of CKD treatment, while diuretic or statin prescription and hypertension were associated with treatment.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with T2D, fewer than one-quarter received recommended CKD screening. In patients with CKD and albuminuria, 21.0% did not receive an SGLT2 inhibitor or an ACEI or an ARB, despite compelling indications. Patient-level factors may inform implementation strategies to improve CKD screening and treatment in people with T2D.

How Would You Manage This Patient With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease? Grand Rounds Discussion From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Nearly 15% of U.S. adults have diabetes; type 2 diabetes (T2D) accounts for more than 90% of cases. Approximately one third of all patients with diabetes will develop chronic kidney disease (CKD). All patients with T2D should be screened annually for CKD with both a urine albumin-creatinine ratio and an estimated glomerular filtration rate. Research into strategies to slow the worsening of CKD and reduce renal and cardiovascular morbidity in patients with T2D and CKD has evolved substantially. In 2022, a consensus statement from the American Diabetes Association and the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes recommended prioritizing the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors and metformin and included guidance for add-on therapy with glucagon-like peptide 1 receptors agonists for most patients whose first-line therapy failed. It also recommended nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists for patients with hypertension that is not adequately controlled with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin-receptor blockers. Here, an endocrinologist and a nephrologist discuss the care of patients with T2D and CKD and how they would apply the consensus statement to the care of an individual patient with T2D who is unaware that he has CKD.

Optimizing Care Delivery in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in the United States: Proceedings of a Multidisciplinary Roundtable Discussion and Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Approximately 37 million individuals in the United States (US) have chronic kidney disease (CKD). Patients with CKD have a substantial morbidity and mortality, which contributes to a huge economic burden to the healthcare system. A limited number of clinical pathways or defined workflows exist for CKD care delivery in the US, primarily due to a lower prioritization of CKD care within health systems compared with other areas (e.g., cardiovascular disease [CVD], cancer screening). CKD is a public health crisis and by the year 2040, CKD will become the fifth leading cause of years of life lost. It is therefore critical to address these challenges to improve outcomes in patients with CKD.

METHODS

The CKD Leaders Network conducted a virtual, 3 h, multidisciplinary roundtable discussion with eight subject-matter experts to better understand key factors impacting CKD care delivery and barriers across the US. A premeeting survey identified topics for discussion covering the screening, diagnosis, risk stratification, and management of CKD across the care continuum. Findings from this roundtable are summarized and presented herein.

RESULTS

Universal challenges exist across health systems, including a lack of awareness amongst providers and patients, constrained care team bandwidth, inadequate financial incentives for early CKD identification, non-standardized diagnostic classification and triage processes, and non-centralized patient information. Proposed solutions include highlighting immediate and long-term financial implications linked with failure to identify and address at-risk individuals, identifying and managing early-stage CKD, enhancing efforts to support guideline-based education for providers and patients, and capitalizing on next-generation solutions.

CONCLUSIONS

Payers and other industry stakeholders have opportunities to contribute to optimal CKD care delivery. Beyond addressing the inadequacies that currently exist, actionable tactics can be implemented into clinical practice to improve clinical outcomes in patients at risk for or diagnosed with CKD in the US.

Development and Validation of the American Heart Association's PREVENT Equations

BACKGROUND

Multivariable equations are recommended by primary prevention guidelines to assess absolute risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, current equations have several limitations. Therefore, we developed and validated the American Heart Association Predicting Risk of CVD EVENTs (PREVENT) equations among US adults 30 to 79 years of age without known CVD.

METHODS

The derivation sample included individual-level participant data from 25 data sets (N=3 281 919) between 1992 and 2017. The primary outcome was CVD (atherosclerotic CVD and heart failure). Predictors included traditional risk factors (smoking status, systolic blood pressure, cholesterol, antihypertensive or statin use, and diabetes) and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Models were sex-specific, race-free, developed on the age scale, and adjusted for competing risk of non-CVD death. Analyses were conducted in each data set and meta-analyzed. Discrimination was assessed using the Harrell C-statistic. Calibration was calculated as the slope of the observed versus predicted risk by decile. Additional equations to predict each CVD subtype (atherosclerotic CVD and heart failure) and include optional predictors (urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio and hemoglobin A1c), and social deprivation index were also developed. External validation was performed in 3 330 085 participants from 21 additional data sets.

RESULTS

Among 6 612 004 adults included, mean±SD age was 53±12 years, and 56% were women. Over a mean±SD follow-up of 4.8±3.1 years, there were 211 515 incident total CVD events. The median C-statistics in external validation for CVD were 0.794 (interquartile interval, 0.763-0.809) in female and 0.757 (0.727-0.778) in male participants. The calibration slopes were 1.03 (interquartile interval, 0.81-1.16) and 0.94 (0.81-1.13) among female and male participants, respectively. Similar estimates for discrimination and calibration were observed for atherosclerotic CVD- and heart failure-specific models. The improvement in discrimination was small but statistically significant when urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio, hemoglobin A1c, and social deprivation index were added together to the base model to total CVD (ΔC-statistic [interquartile interval] 0.004 [0.004-0.005] and 0.005 [0.004-0.007] among female and male participants, respectively). Calibration improved significantly when the urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio was added to the base model among those with marked albuminuria (>300 mg/g; 1.05 [0.84-1.20] versus 1.39 [1.14-1.65]; P=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

PREVENT equations accurately and precisely predicted risk for incident CVD and CVD subtypes in a large, diverse, and contemporary sample of US adults by using routinely available clinical variables.

Baseline Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio is Associated With Decline of Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in Patients Newly Diagnosed With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Observational 5-year Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the association between baseline albuminuria and the progression of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) in patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 604 patients aged ≥18 years who were newly diagnosed with type 2 DM between January 2014 and 31 December 2017 at an outpatient clinic in a tertiary hospital in China. The incidence of albuminuria was determined and the associations between albuminuria at baseline and the progression of DKD estimated by estimated glomerular filtration rate slope were evaluated using binary logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

At diagnosis of type 2 DM, 18.8% of patients had albuminuria, with 17.4% having microalbuminuria and the other 1.4% having macroalbuminuria. During the 5-year follow-up period, patients with albuminuria at the baseline experienced a more rapid decline of estimated glomerular filtration rate over time than patients with normoalbuminuria at baseline (-2.6 vs -1.5 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year, P =.01). Albuminuria at baseline is independently associated with the progression of DKD.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of albuminuria is 18.8% in patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and the occurrence of albuminuria can predict steeper annual decline in kidney function.

Screening, identifying, and treating chronic kidney disease: why, who, when, how, and what?

1 in 7 American adults have chronic kidney disease (CKD); a disease that increases risk for CKD progression, cardiovascular events, and mortality. Currently, the US Preventative Services Task Force does not have a screening recommendation, though evidence suggests that screening can prevent progression and is cost-effective. Populations at risk for CKD, such as those with hypertension, diabetes, and age greater than 50 years should be targeted for screening. CKD is diagnosed and risk stratified with estimated glomerular filtration rate utilizing serum creatinine and measuring urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio. Once identified, CKD is staged according to C-G-A classification, and managed with lifestyle modification, interdisciplinary care and the recently expanding repertoire of pharmacotherapy which includes angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin-II receptor blockers, sodium-glucose-cotransporter-2 inhibitors, and mineralocorticorticoid receptor antagonists. In this paper, we present the why, who, when, how, and what of CKD screening.

Albuminuria: An Underappreciated Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease

Albuminuria, an established biomarker of the progression of chronic kidney disease, is also recognized as a biomarker for the risk of cardiovascular disease. Elevated urinary albumin excretion indicates kidney damage and systemic vascular disease, including myocardial capillary disease and arterial stiffness. Albuminuria is associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmias, and microvascular disease. There are now several therapeutic agents that can lead to albuminuria lowering and a reduction in cardiovascular risk. However, screening for albuminuria is still low. Considering the importance of multidisciplinary management of patients with cardiovascular disease, it is crucial that health care professionals managing such patients are aware of the benefits of albuminuria surveillance and management.

Digital Health Interventions for Quality Improvements in Chronic Kidney Disease Primary Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health issue globally. The importance of its timely identification and early intervention is paramount. However, a systematic approach for early CKD management in the primary care setting is currently lacking, receiving less attention compared to upstream risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. This oversight may lead to a failure in meeting quality-of-care indicators. Digital health interventions (DHIs), which leverage digital tools to enhance healthcare delivery, have shown effectiveness in managing chronic diseases and improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of primary care. Our research aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of DHIs in the care process, focusing on their reach, uptake, and feasibility.

METHODS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing DHIs' effectiveness in CKD patient care among adults in primary care settings. The search, conducted on 30 June 2023, included studies published in English from 1 January 2009. Screening was conducted using Covidence, adhering to Cochrane's guidelines for data extraction. We primarily evaluated changes in care processes (testing, documentation, medication use, etc.) and the use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi), referrals, among others. Multilevel meta-analysis was employed to address within-study clustering, and meta-regression analyzed the impact of study characteristics on heterogeneity in effect sizes. Clinical endpoints were recorded where available. Bias risk was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. Data on reach, uptake, and feasibility were narratively summarized. The study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023449098).

RESULTS

From 679 records, 12 RCTs were included in the narrative synthesis, and 6 studies (encompassing 7 trials) in the meta-analysis. The trials indicated a -0.85% change (95%CI, -5.82% to 4.11%) in the proportion of patients receiving desired care. This result showed considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 91.9%). One study characteristic (co-intervention, education) correlated with larger effects. Although including co-intervention in multivariable meta-regression was significant, it did not diminish heterogeneity. The reported reach varied and was not high, while the uptake was relatively high. Most studies did not explicitly address feasibility, though some statements implied its evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

The current literature on the impact of DHIs in community-based CKD care is limited. The studies suggest a non-significant effect of DHIs on enhancing CKD management in community settings, marked by significant heterogeneity. Future research should focus on rigorous, methodologically sound implementations to better assess the effectiveness of DHIs in the primary care management of CKD.

Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes Within Primary Care: A Cross-Sectional Study

AIMS

To assess the prevalence and risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) among adults with type 2 diabetes within primary care.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study evaluated 1319 individuals receiving standard care across 26 primary units from July 2017 to January 2023. The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria were used for the diagnosis of CKD. CKD was defined by eGFR values of <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or albumin-to-creatine ratio ≥30 mg/g. Logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with CKD and study variables.

RESULTS

The median age of participants (60.6% females) was 55 years and the median diabetes duration was 10 years. The overall CKD prevalence in the study population was 39.2%. Within the CKD group, the prevalence rates of albuminuria, albuminuria coupled with low eGFR and isolated low eGFR were 72.1%, 19%, and 8.9%, respectively. The prevalence of CKD was 30.6% among participants under 40 years old and a higher value was observed in middle-aged adults with early-onset diabetes (at age <40 years) compared with the later-onset group. Multivariable analyses identified associations between CKD and factors such as age, the male sex, diabetes duration, hypertension, retinopathy, and metformin use.

CONCLUSION

A relatively high prevalence of CKD, especially in non-elderly adults, was revealed in this primary care study. Early recognition strategies for CKD are crucial for timely prevention within primary care.

A Real-World Precision Medicine Program Including the KidneyIntelX Test Effectively Changes Management Decisions and Outcomes for Patients With Early-Stage Diabetic Kidney Disease

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

The KidneyIntelX is a multiplex, bioprognostic, immunoassay consisting of 3 plasma biomarkers and clinical variables that uses machine learning to predict a patient's risk for a progressive decline in kidney function over 5 years. We report the 1-year pre- and post-test clinical impact on care management, eGFR slope, and A1C along with engagement of population health clinical pharmacists and patient coordinators to promote a program of sustainable kidney, metabolic, and cardiac health.

METHODS

The KidneyIntelX in vitro prognostic test was previously validated for patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) to predict kidney function decline within 5 years was introduced into the RWE study (NCT04802395) across the Health System as part of a population health chronic disease management program from [November 2020 to April 2023]. Pre- and post-test patients with a minimum of 12 months of follow-up post KidneyIntelX were assessed across all aspects of the program.

RESULTS

A total of 5348 patients with DKD had a KidneyIntelX assay. The median age was 68 years old, 52% were female, 27% self-identified as Black, and 89% had hypertension. The median baseline eGFR was 62 ml/min/1.73 m2, urine albumin-creatinine ratio was 54 mg/g, and A1C was 7.3%. The KidneyIntelX risk level was low in 49%, intermediate in 40%, and high in 11% of cases. New prescriptions for SGLT2i, GLP-1 RA, or referral to a specialist were noted in 19%, 33%, and 43% among low-, intermediate-, and high-risk patients, respectively. The median A1C decreased from 8.2% pre-test to 7.5% post-test in the high-risk group (P < .001). UACR levels in the intermediate-risk patients with albuminuria were reduced by 20%, and in a subgroup treated with new scripts for SGLT2i, UACR levels were lowered by approximately 50%. The median eGFR slope improved from -7.08 ml/min/1.73 m2/year to -4.27 ml/min/1.73 m2/year in high-risk patients (P = .0003), -2.65 to -1.04 in intermediate risk, and -3.26 ml/min/1.73 m2/year to +0.45 ml/min/1.73 m2/year in patients with low-risk (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Deployment and risk stratification by KidneyIntelX was associated with an escalation in action taken to optimize cardio-kidney-metabolic health including medications and specialist referrals. Glycemic control and kidney function trajectories improved post-KidneyIntelX testing, with the greatest improvements observed in those scored as high-risk.

Albuminuria Screening in People With Type 2 Diabetes in a Managed Care Organization

INTRODUCTION

Albuminuria-an increased amount of urine albumin, in milligrams, adjusted for grams of urine creatinine-is an early marker of diabetic kidney disease. Several new classes of medications are now available that effectively lower albuminuria levels with the potential to delay or prevent the progression of diabetic kidney disease. However, screening for albuminuria in the U.S. is low in population-based studies (<10% to ∼50% at most). In this study, we examine whether screening for albuminuria was improved in an integrated model of healthcare delivery following the recommendations of the National Committee for Quality Assurance mandate (an umbrella group for the managed healthcare industry) to screen for albuminuria.

METHODS

We examined screening for albuminuria over a 2-year period among people with Type 2 diabetes in a U.S. HMO with an electronic medical record, onto which automated laboratory ordering for albuminuria could be added when a patient appeared at the laboratory (for any reason) if albuminuria testing had not been obtained within the previous 365 days. Participants under this plan received diabetes education at no cost and panel managers to guide their diabetes care. Logistic regression using data from 2020 and 2021, separately, evaluated the relationship between patient characteristics and the likelihood of albuminuria screening.

RESULTS

There were 20,688 and 22,487 participants with Type 2 diabetes mellitus in 2020 and 2021, respectively, who were analyzed. Approximately 80% were screened for albuminuria in both years. African American participants and those aged >64 years were more likely to have completed albuminuria screening. Screened individuals had lower HbA1c, blood pressure, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than those who were not screened.

CONCLUSIONS

In an integrated healthcare model, it is possible to achieve consistently high rates of albuminuria screening in people with Type 2 diabetes, especially in groups at high risk for kidney disease.

Exploration of Metabolomic Markers Associated With Declining Kidney Function in People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background

Metabolomics, the study of small molecules in biological systems, can provide valuable insights into kidney dysfunction in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but prospective studies are scarce. We investigated the association between metabolites and kidney function decline in people with T2DM.

Methods

The Edinburgh Type 2 Diabetes Study, a population-based cohort of 1066 men and women aged 60 to 75 years with T2DM. We measured 149 serum metabolites at baseline and investigated individual associations with baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), incident chronic kidney disease [CKD; eGFR <60 mL/min/(1.73 m)2], and decliner status (5% eGFR decline per year).

Results

At baseline, mean eGFR was 77.5 mL/min/(1.73 m)2 (n = 1058), and 216 individuals had evidence of CKD. Of those without CKD, 155 developed CKD over a median 7-year follow-up. Eighty-eight metabolites were significantly associated with baseline eGFR (β range -4.08 to 3.92; PFDR < 0.001). Very low density lipoproteins, triglycerides, amino acids (AAs), glycoprotein acetyls, and fatty acids showed inverse associations, while cholesterol and phospholipids in high-density lipoproteins exhibited positive associations. AA isoleucine, apolipoprotein A1, and total cholines were not only associated with baseline kidney measures (PFDR < 0.05) but also showed stable, nominally significant association with incident CKD and decline.

Conclusion

Our study revealed widespread changes within the metabolomic profile of CKD, particularly in lipoproteins and their lipid compounds. We identified a smaller number of individual metabolites that are specifically associated with kidney function decline. Replication studies are needed to confirm the longitudinal findings and explore if metabolic signals at baseline can predict kidney decline.

Trends and perspectives for improving quality of chronic kidney disease care: conclusions from a Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) Controversies Conference

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects over 850 million people globally, and the need to prevent its development and progression is urgent. During the past decade, new perspectives have arisen related to the quality and precision of care for CKD, owing to the development of new tools and interventions for CKD diagnosis and management. New biomarkers, imaging methods, artificial intelligence techniques, and approaches to organizing and delivering healthcare may help clinicians recognize CKD, determine its etiology, assess the dominant mechanisms at given time points, and identify patients at high risk for progression or related events. As opportunities to apply the concepts of precision medicine for CKD identification and management continue to be developed, an ongoing discussion of the potential implications for care delivery is required. The 2022 KDIGO Controversies Conference on Improving CKD Quality of Care: Trends and Perspectives examined and discussed best practices for improving the precision of CKD diagnosis and prognosis, managing the complications of CKD, enhancing the safety of care, and maximizing patient quality of life. Existing tools and interventions currently available for the diagnosis and treatment of CKD were identified, with discussion of current barriers to their implementation and strategies for improving the quality of care delivered for CKD. Key knowledge gaps and areas for research were also identified.

Risk of Cause-Specific Mortality across Glucose Spectrum in Elderly People: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

BACKGRUOUND

This study investigated the risk of cause-specific mortality according to glucose tolerance status in elderly South Koreans.

METHODS

A total of 1,292,264 individuals aged ≥65 years who received health examinations in 2009 were identified from the National Health Information Database. Participants were classified as normal glucose tolerance, impaired fasting glucose, newly-diagnosed diabetes, early diabetes (oral hypoglycemic agents ≤2), or advanced diabetes (oral hypoglycemic agents ≥3 or insulin). The risk of system-specific and disease-specific deaths was estimated using multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 8.41 years, 257,356 deaths were recorded. Diabetes was associated with significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.57 to 1.60); death due to circulatory (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.46 to 1.52), respiratory (HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.47 to 1.55), and genitourinary systems (HR, 2.22; 95% CI, 2.10 to 2.35); and neoplasms (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.28 to 1.32). Diabetes was also associated with a significantly higher risk of death due to ischemic heart disease (HR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.63 to 1.76), cerebrovascular disease (HR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.41 to 1.50), pneumonia (HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.63 to 1.76), and acute or chronic kidney disease (HR, 2.23; 95% CI, 2.09 to 2.38). There was a stepwise increase in the risk of death across the glucose spectrum (P for trend <0.0001). Stroke, heart failure, or chronic kidney disease increased the risk of all-cause mortality at every stage of glucose intolerance.

CONCLUSION

A dose-dependent association between the risk of mortality from various causes and severity of glucose tolerance was noted in the elderly population.

Fulfillment and Validity of the Kidney Health Evaluation Measure for People with Diabetes

Objective

To evaluate the fulfillment and validity of the kidney health evaluation for people with diabetes (KED) Healthcare Effectiveness Data Information Set (HEDIS) measure.

Patients and Methods

Optum Labs Data Warehouse (OLDW) was used to identify the nationally distributed US population aged 18 years and older, with diabetes, between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017. The OLDW includes deidentified medical, pharmacy, laboratory, and electronic health record (EHR) data. The KED fulfillment was defined in 2017 as both estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinary albumin-creatinine ratio testing within the measurement year. The KED validity was assessed using bivariate analyses of KED fulfillment with diabetes care measures in 2017 and chronic kidney disease (CKD) diagnosis and evidence-based kidney protective interventions in 2018.

Results

Among eligible 5,635,619 Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries, 736,875 Medicare advantage (MA) beneficiaries, and 660,987 commercial patients, KED fulfillment was 32.2%, 38.7%, and 37.7%, respectively. Albuminuria testing limited KED fulfillment with urinary albumin-creatinine ratio testing (<40%) and eGFR testing (>90%). The KED fulfillment was positively associated with receipt of diabetes care in 2017, CKD diagnosis in 2018, and evidence-based kidney protective interventions in 2018. The KED fulfillment trended lower for Black race, Medicare-Medicaid dual eligibility status, low neighborhood income, and low education status.

Conclusion

Less than 40% of adults with diabetes received guideline-recommended testing for CKD in 2017. Routine KED was associated with diabetes care and evidence-based CKD interventions. Increasing guideline-recommended testing for CKD among people with diabetes should lead to timely and equitable CKD detection and treatment.

Deficiencies in the Recognition and Reporting of Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus; A Hungarian Nationwide Analysis

Objectives: Recognition of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is crucial in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We conducted a nationwide epidemiological study to evaluate T2DM-associated CKD in Hungary between 2016 and 2020. Methods: Annual incidence and prevalence rates of registered CKD amongst all pharmacologically treated T2DM patients were analyzed in different age-groups by the central database of the Hungarian Health Insurance Fund Management. Statistical methods included Poisson regression, Bonferroni test, Chi-square test. Results: We found 499,029 T2DM patients and 48,902 CKD patients in 2016, and 586,075 T2DM patients and 38,347 CKD patients in 2020. The majority of all prevalent T2DM and CKD patients were older (aged 60-69 years: 34.1% and 25.8%; ≥70 years: 36.1% and 64.4%, respectively). The annual incidence of T2DM and incidence rates of CKD in T2DM decreased in 2017-2020 (p < 0.001). The annual prevalence of T2DM increased (p < 0.01), the prevalence rates of CKD in T2DM were low and decreased from 9.8% to 6.5% in 2016-2020 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Incidence and prevalence of T2DM-associated CKD decreased significantly in Hungary in 2016-2020. Lower prevalence rates of CKD may suggest under-recognition and/or under-reporting.

Modifiability of Composite Cardiovascular Risk Associated With Chronic Kidney Disease in Type 2 Diabetes With Finerenone

IMPORTANCE

It is currently unclear whether chronic kidney disease (CKD)-associated cardiovascular risk in type 2 diabetes (T2D) is modifiable.

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether cardiovascular risk can be modified with finerenone in patients with T2D and CKD.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Incidence rates from Finerenone in Chronic Kidney Disease and Type 2 Diabetes: Combined FIDELIO-DKD and FIGARO-DKD Trial Programme Analysis (FIDELITY), a pooled analysis of 2 phase 3 trials (including patients with CKD and T2D randomly assigned to receive finerenone or placebo) were combined with National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data to simulate the number of composite cardiovascular events that may be prevented per year with finerenone at a population level. Data were analyzed over 4 years of consecutive National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data cycles (2015-2016 and 2017-2018).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Incidence rates of cardiovascular events (composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal stroke, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or hospitalization for heart failure) were estimated over a median of 3.0 years by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria categories. The outcome was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models stratified by study, region, eGFR and albuminuria categories at screening, and cardiovascular disease history.

RESULTS

This subanalysis included a total of 13 026 participants (mean [SD] age, 64.8 [9.5] years; 9088 male [69.8%]). Lower eGFR and higher albuminuria were associated with higher incidences of cardiovascular events. For recipients in the placebo group with an eGFR of 90 or greater, incidence rates per 100 patient-years were 2.38 (95% CI, 1.03-4.29) in those with a urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) less than 300 mg/g and 3.78 (95% CI, 2.91-4.75) in those with UACR of 300 mg/g or greater. In those with eGFR less than 30, incidence rates increased to 6.54 (95% CI, 4.19-9.40) vs 8.74 (95% CI, 6.78-10.93), respectively. In both continuous and categorical models, finerenone was associated with a reduction in composite cardiovascular risk (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.78-0.95; P = .002) irrespective of eGFR and UACR (P value for interaction = .66). In 6.4 million treatment-eligible individuals (95% CI, 5.4-7.4 million), 1 year of finerenone treatment was simulated to prevent 38 359 cardiovascular events (95% CI, 31 741-44 852), including approximately 14 000 hospitalizations for heart failure, with 66% (25 357 of 38 360) prevented in patients with eGFR of 60 or greater.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Results of this subanalysis of the FIDELITY analysis suggest that CKD-associated composite cardiovascular risk may be modifiable with finerenone treatment in patients with T2D, those with eGFR of 25 or higher, and those with UACR of 30 mg/g or greater. UACR screening to identify patients with T2D and albuminuria with eGFR of 60 or greater may provide significant opportunities for population benefits.

Estimated Prevalence and Testing for Albuminuria in US Adults at Risk for Chronic Kidney Disease

Importance

Albuminuria testing is crucial for guiding evidence-based treatments to mitigate chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and cardiovascular morbidity, but it is widely underutilized among persons with or at risk for CKD.

Objective

To estimate the extent of albuminuria underdetection from lack of testing and evaluate its association with CKD treatment in a large US cohort of patients with hypertension or diabetes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study examined adults with hypertension or diabetes, using data from the 2007 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES) and the Optum deidentified electronic health record (EHR) data set of diverse US health care organizations. Analyses were conducted from October 31, 2022, to May 19, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Using NHANES as a nationally representative sample, a logistic regression model was developed to estimate albuminuria (urine albumin-creatinine ratio ≥30 mg/g). This model was then applied to active outpatients in the EHR from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2018. The prevalence of albuminuria among those with and without albuminuria testing during this period was estimated. A multivariable logistic regression was used to examine associations between having albuminuria testing and CKD therapies within the subsequent year (prescription for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor [ACEi] or angiotensin II receptor blocker [ARB], prescription for sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor [SGLT2i], and blood pressure control to less than 130/80 mm Hg or less than 140/90 mm Hg on the latest outpatient measure).

Results

The total EHR study population included 192 108 patients (mean [SD] age, 60.3 [15.1] years; 185 589 [96.6%] with hypertension; 50 507 [26.2%] with diabetes; mean [SD] eGFR, 84 [21] mL/min/1.73 m2). There were 33 629 patients (17.5%) who had albuminuria testing; of whom 11 525 (34.3%) had albuminuria. Among 158 479 patients who were untested, the estimated albuminuria prevalence rate was 13.4% (n = 21 231). Thus, only 35.2% (11 525 of 32 756) of the projected population with albuminuria had been tested. Albuminuria testing was associated with higher adjusted odds of receiving ACEi or ARB treatment (OR, 2.39 [95% CI, 2.32-2.46]), SGLT2i treatment (OR, 8.22 [95% CI, 7.56-8.94]), and having blood pressure controlled to less than 140/90 mm Hg (OR, 1.20 [95% CI, 1.16-1.23]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with hypertension or diabetes, it was estimated that approximately two-thirds of patients with albuminuria were undetected due to lack of testing. These results suggest that improving detection of CKD with albuminuria testing represents a substantial opportunity to optimize care delivery for reducing CKD progression and cardiovascular complications.

AACC/NKF Guidance Document on Improving Equity in Chronic Kidney Disease Care

BACKGROUND

Kidney disease (KD) is an important health equity issue with Black, Hispanic, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals experiencing a disproportionate disease burden. Prior to 2021, the commonly used estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equations incorporated coefficients for Black race that conferred higher GFR estimates for Black individuals compared to non-Black individuals of the same sex, age, and blood creatinine concentration. With a recognition that race does not delineate distinct biological categories, a joint task force of the National Kidney Foundation and the American Society of Nephrology recommended the adoption of the CKD-EPI 2021 race-agnostic equations.

CONTENT

This document provides guidance on implementation of the CKD-EPI 2021 equations. It describes recommendations for KD biomarker testing, and opportunities for collaboration between clinical laboratories and providers to improve KD detection in high-risk populations. Further, the document provides guidance on the use of cystatin C, and eGFR reporting and interpretation in gender-diverse populations.

SUMMARY

Implementation of the CKD-EPI 2021 eGFR equations represents progress toward health equity in the management of KD. Ongoing efforts by multidisciplinary teams, including clinical laboratorians, should focus on improved disease detection in clinically and socially high-risk populations. Routine use of cystatin C is recommended to improve the accuracy of eGFR, particularly in patients whose blood creatinine concentrations are confounded by processes other than glomerular filtration. When managing gender-diverse individuals, eGFR should be calculated and reported with both male and female coefficients. Gender-diverse individuals can benefit from a more holistic management approach, particularly at important clinical decision points.

Poor adherence to clinical practice guidelines: A call to action for increased albuminuria testing in patients with type 2 diabetes

We describe the substantial shortfall in adherence to guideline-recommended albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) testing for people in the United States with type 2 diabetes. Poor compliance with current guidelines leads to delays in diagnosis-and treatment- of chronic kidney disease, which adversely affects clinical outcomes and contributes to incremental economic burden.

Patient Management and Clinical Outcomes Associated with a Recorded Diagnosis of Stage 3 Chronic Kidney Disease: The REVEAL-CKD Study

INTRODUCTION

Guidelines for the treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) recommend early intervention and management to slow disease progression. However, associations between diagnosis and CKD progression are not fully understood.

METHODS

REVEAL-CKD (NCT04847531) is a retrospective observational study of patients with stage 3 CKD. Data were extracted from the US TriNetX database. Eligible patients had two consecutive estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) measurements indicative of stage 3 CKD (≥ 30 and < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2) recorded 91-730 days apart from 2015 to 2020. Diagnosed patients were included if their first CKD diagnosis code was recorded at least 6 months after their second qualifying eGFR measurement. We assessed CKD management and monitoring practices for the 180 days before and after CKD diagnosis, annual eGFR decline in the 2 years before and after CKD diagnosis, and associations between diagnostic delay and post-diagnosis event rates.

RESULTS

The study included 26,851 patients. After diagnosis, we observed significant increases in the prescribing rate of guideline-recommended medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (rate ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.87 [1.82, 1.93]), angiotensin receptor blockers (1.91 [1.85, 1.97]) and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (2.23 [2.13, 2.34]). Annual eGFR decline was significantly reduced following a CKD diagnosis, from 3.20 ml/min/1.73 m2 before diagnosis to 0.74 ml/min/1.73 m2 after diagnosis. Delayed diagnosis (by 1-year increments) was associated with elevated risk of CKD progression to stage 4/5 (1.40 [1.31-1.49]), kidney failure (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.63 [1.23-2.18]) and the composite of myocardial infarction, stroke and hospitalization for heart failure (1.08 [1.04-1.13]).

CONCLUSIONS

A recorded CKD diagnosis was associated with significant improvements in CKD management and monitoring practices and attenuated eGFR decline. Recorded diagnosis of stage 3 CKD is an important first step to reduce the risk of disease progression and minimize adverse clinical outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04847531.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in diabetic kidney disease: A review of their kidney and heart protection

Importance

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality for patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, testing for albuminuria among patients with T2D is substantially underutilized in clinical practice; many patients with CKD go unrecognized. For patients with T2D at high cardiovascular risk, or with established CVD, the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RA) have been shown to reduce ASCVD in cardiovascular outcome trials, while potential kidney outcomes are being explored.

Observations

A recent meta-analysis found that GLP1-RA reduced 3-point major adverse cardiovascular events by 14% [HR, 0.86 (95% CI, 0.80-0.93)] in patients with T2D. The benefits of GLP1-RA to reduce ASCVD were at least as large among people with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min/1.73 m². GLP1-RA also conferred a 21% reduction in the composite kidney outcome [HR, 0.79 (0.73-0.87)]; however, this result was achieved largely through reduction in albuminuria. It remains uncertain whether GLP1-RA would confer similar favorable results for eGFR decline and/or progression to end-stage kidney disease. Postulated mechanisms by which GLP1-RA confer protection against CVD and CKD include blood pressure lowering, weight loss, improved glucose control, and decreasing oxidative stress. Ongoing studies in T2D and CKD include a kidney outcome trial with semaglutide (FLOW, NCT03819153) and a mechanism of action study (REMODEL, NCT04865770) examining semaglutide's effect on kidney inflammation and fibrosis. Ongoing cardiovascular outcome studies are examining an oral GLP1-RA (NCT03914326), GLP1-RA in patients without T2D (NCT03574597), and dual GIP/GLP1-RA agonists (NCT04255433); the secondary kidney outcomes of these trials will be informative.

Conclusions and relevance

Despite their well-described ASCVD benefits and potential kidney protective mechanisms, GLP1-RA remain underutilized in clinical practice. This highlights the need for cardiovascular clinicians to influence and implement use of GLP1-RA in appropriate patients, including those with T2D and CKD at higher risk for ASCVD.