Screening For Albuminuria Research Articles

Genotype-First Analysis in an Unselected Health System-Based Population and Phenotypic Severity of COL4A5 Variants.

Our knowledge of X-linked Alport Syndrome comes mostly from selected cohorts with more severe disease. We examined the phenotypic spectrum of X-linked Alport Syndrome in males and females with a genotype-based approach using data from the Geisinger MyCode DiscovEHR study, an unselected health system-based cohort with exome sequencing and electronic health records. Patients with COL4A5 variants reported as pathogenic or likely pathogenic in ClinVar, or protein-truncating variants, were each matched with up to 5 controls without COL4A3/4/5 variants by sociodemographics, diabetes diagnosis, and year of first outpatient encounter. Phenotypes examined included dipstick hematuria, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, proteinuria, decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate, and kidney failure. Out of 170,856 patients, there were 29 hemizygous males (mean age 52 y [SD 20]) and 55 heterozygous females (mean age 59 y [SD 19]) with a pathogenic/likely pathogenic COL4A5 variant, including 48 with the hypomorphic variant p.Gly624Asp. Overall, penetrance (having any Alport Syndrome phenotypic feature) was highest for non-p.Gly624Asp variants (males: 94%, females: 85%), intermediate for p.Gly624Asp (males: 77%, females: 69%), compared to controls (males: 32%; females: 50%). The proportion with kidney failure was highest for males with non-p.Gly624Asp variants (44%), intermediate for males with p.Gly624Asp (15%) and females with non-p.Gly624Asp variants (10%), compared to controls (males: 3%, females 2%). Only 47% of individuals with COL4A5 had completed albuminuria screening, and a minority were taking renin-angiotensin aldosterone system inhibitors. Only 38% of males and 16% of females had a known diagnosis of Alport Syndrome or thin basement membrane disease. Using a genotype-first approach, we show that men and women with X-linked Alport Syndrome are at higher risk of related phenotypic features with a wider spectrum of severity than has been described previously and variability by genotype.

Using Risk Assessment to Improve Screening for Albuminuria among US Adults without Diabetes.

Guidelines currently recommend annual screening for albuminuria only among persons with diabetes mellitus (DM). There is no guidance about albuminuria screening in those with other important risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD), such as hypertension and/or family history of kidney disease. We sought to create a risk score that predicts the likelihood of albuminuria in adults without diabetes to prompt earlier detection and management of CKD. Data from 44,322 participants without diabetes, aged 18 + years from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys 1999-2020 were analyzed. Survey-weighted logistic regression was used to assess associations between individual characteristics and presence of albuminuria (urinary albumin to creatinine ratio [UACR] ≥ 30mg/g), including interaction terms, in three separate models. The sample was divided equally into development and validation data sets. C-statistics were used to assess model fit. The prevalence of albuminuria was 9.7% in the US adult population. Higher odds of albuminuria among the non-diabetic population were observed in females, non-Hispanic Black, and smokers, as well as those with low eGFR, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, prediabetes, low HDL cholesterol, and high uric acid levels. Age showed a J-shaped relationship with albuminuria, with lowest odds for ages 25-64years. The C-statistic was 0.756 for the developmental and 0.752 for the validation set of the final model. Using this model, screening individuals with a predicted probability of ≥ 5% would capture 85% of individuals with albuminuria. These results suggest that it may be helpful to use a risk score framework for albuminuria screening in people without DM to encourage earlier detection and management of CKD. Longitudinal studies are warranted to confirm this approach along with evaluation of its cost effectiveness.

Populationwide Screening for Chronic Kidney Disease

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have changed clinical management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and made populationwide screening for CKD a viable strategy. Optimal age of screening initiation has yet to be evaluated. To compare the clinical benefits, costs, and cost-effectiveness of population-wide CKD screening at different initiation ages and screening frequencies. This cost-effectiveness study used a previously published decision-analytic Markov cohort model that simulated progression of CKD among US adults from age 35 years and older and was calibrated to population-level data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors was derived from the Dapagliflozin and Prevention of Adverse Outcomes in Chronic Kidney Disease (DAPA-CKD) trial. Mortality, quality-of-life weights, and cost estimates were obtained from published cohort studies, randomized clinical trials, and US Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services data. Analyses were performed from June 2023 through September 2024. One-time or periodic (every 10 or 5 years) screening for albuminuria, initiated at ages between 35 and 75 years, with and without addition of SGLT2 inhibitors to conventional CKD therapy (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers). Cumulative incidence of kidney failure requiring kidney replacement therapy (KRT); life years, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), lifetime health care costs (2024 US currency), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios discounted at 3% annually. For those aged 35 years, starting screening at age 55 years, and continuing every 5 years through age 75 years, combined with SGLT2 inhibitors, decreased the cumulative incidence of kidney failure requiring KRT from 2.4% to 1.9%, increased life expectancy by 0.13 years, and cost $128 400 per QALY gained. Although initiation of screening every 5 years at age 35 or 45 years yielded greater gains in population-wide health benefits, these strategies cost more than $200 000 per additional QALY gained. The comparative values of starting screening at different ages were sensitive to the cost and effectiveness of SGLT2 inhibitors; if SGLT2 inhibitor prices drop due to patent expirations, screening at age 55 years continued to be cost-effective even if SGLT2 inhibitor effectiveness were 30% lower than in the base case. This study found that, based on conventional benchmarks for cost-effectiveness in medicine, initiating population-wide CKD screening with SGLT2 inhibitors at age 55 years would be cost-effective.

Characteristics, treatment and disease burden among stage 3-4 chronic kidney disease patients with and without type 2 diabetes in Finland during 2016-2022.

Real-world evidence on the management of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with and without type 2 diabetes (T2D) is limited. This study described the characteristics, treatment, and disease burdenin patients with stage 3-4 CKD with and without T2D in Finland. This cohort study used data from primary and hospital care in five municipalities in Finland to identify adults with stage 3-4 CKD, defined as having either one estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) measurement of 15-59ml/min/1.73m2 followed by a second measurement taken≥90 days apart, or a registered CKD diagnosis. Prevalence was determined on 31 December 2022, and a cohort of incident stage 3-4 CKD patients was followed from the first date fulfilling eligibility criteria since 01 January 2016 (index) until death or 31 December 2022, and analyzed by T2D status. The prevalence of stage 3-4 CKD was 6.3%. Among the 12 474 incident stage 3-4 CKD patients, the majority were non-T2D (73%). The median age was similar for non-T2D and T2D CKD patients, respectively. Baseline albuminuria screening was 9% among non-T2D and 53% among T2D. The use of kidney-protective treatments at index was also lower in non-T2D patients (47%), compared with T2D patients (69%). The use of kidney-protective treatments remained unchanged during 12 months after index. Healthcare resource utilization was high, and CKD or heart failure contributed considerably more to the all-cause healthcare costs than atherosclerotic diseases, regardless of T2D status. In both CKD subgroups, 10% had died within one year. In Finland, CKD is highly prevalent and associated with high risks and low use of albuminuria testing and kidney-protective medications. Most CKD patients were non-T2D, which showed lower use of preventive management and similar risks compared with T2D patients. These findings call for an urgent need for improved awareness and risk management, especially in non-T2D CKD patients.

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.

Abstract P337: Impact of a population health approach using smartphone-enabled home albuminuria testing to improve screening in patients with hypertension or diabetes

Background: Screening for albuminuria with urine albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) testing among at risk patients is critical as guideline-based therapies can be used to decrease the risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease. However, adherence to testing remains very low, especially for hypertension. Here, we report the results from a prospective pilot study involving a smartphone-enabled home albuminuria testing quality improvement. Methods: We randomly selected 4000 adult individuals (50% with hypertension but no diabetes and 50% with diabetes +/- hypertension) receiving primary care at a large healthcare system in Central and Northeastern Pennsylvania who had not undergone ACR testing in the past 12 months to receive Minuteful Kidney, an FDA-cleared, smartphone-enabled home urine albuminuria screening kit using the vendor’s (Healthy.io) standard workflow. The home testing group was matched 1:1 to 4000 controls who received usual care using propensity score matching addressing imbalances in sociodemographics and comorbidities. The primary outcome was completion of ACR test (either laboratory based ACR or Minuteful Kidney) within 100 days of the index date. Results shown are as of May 1, 2024 (86 days after the index date). Results: Overall, completion of any ACR test was higher in the home testing group than matched controls (50.2% vs. 19.1%; p<0.001). The impact on ACR testing was higher for the hypertension subgroup (50.4% vs. 11.2%; p<0.001) than the diabetes subgroup (49.9% vs. 26.9%; p<0.001). Among the home testing group, 1542/4000 (38.7%) completed the smartphone ACR test, with a higher proportion of completions in non-diabetic hypertension (848/2000 [42.4%] than the diabetes subgroup (663/2000 [33.2%]). Adherence rates were similar across age groups and geographic location. Satisfaction was high among individuals in the home testing group (53+ Net Promoter Score; 94% rated the test as easy or very easy to complete; 88% stated preference for at home testing). Home-based albuminuria screening detected mild to moderate albuminuria (30-300 mg/g) in 33.2% and severe albuminuria (>300 mg/g) in 8.1%. Abnormal results were fairly similar for the diabetes subgroup (33.8% 30-300 mg/g, 10.8% >300 mg/g) and the hypertension subgroup (32.6% 30-300 mg/g, 5.9% >300 mg/g). Conclusions: A population health approach using smartphone-enabled home albuminuria testing is effective in increasing albuminuria screening among individuals with hypertension or diabetes.

Genotype-first analysis in an unselected health system-based population reveals variable phenotypic severity of COL4A5 variants.

Our knowledge of X-linked Alport Syndrome [AS] comes mostly from selected cohorts with more severe disease. We examined the phenotypic spectrum of X-linked AS in males and females with a genotype-based approach using data from the Geisinger MyCode DiscovEHR study, an unselected health system-based cohort with exome sequencing and electronic health records. Patients with COL4A5 variants reported as pathogenic (P) or likely pathogenic (LP) in ClinVar, or protein-truncating variants (PTVs), were each matched with up to 5 controls without COL4A3/4/5 variants by sociodemographics, diabetes diagnosis, and year of first outpatient encounter. AS-related phenotypes included dipstick hematuria, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (BSHL), proteinuria, decreased eGFR, and ESKD. Out of 170,856 patients, there were 29 hemizygous males (mean age 52.0 y [SD 20.0]) and 55 heterozygous females (mean age 59.3 y [SD 18.8]) with a COL4A5 P/LP variant, including 48 with the hypomorphic variant p.Gly624Asp. Overall, penetrance (having any AS phenotypic feature) was highest for non-p.Gly624Asp P/LP variants (males: 94%, females: 85%), intermediate for p.Gly624Asp (males: 77%, females: 69%), compared to controls (males: 32%; females: 50%). The proportion with ESKD was highest for males with P/LP variants (44%), intermediate for males with p.Gly624Asp (15%) and females with P/LP variants (10%), compared to controls (males: 3%, females 2%). Only 47% of individuals with COL4A5 had completed albuminuria screening, and a minority were taking renin-angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors. Only 38% of males and 16% of females had a known diagnosis of Alport syndrome or thin basement membrane disease. In an unselected cohort, we show increased risks of AS-related phenotypes in men and women compared to matched controls, while showing a wider spectrum of severity than has been described previously and variability by genotype. Future studies are needed to determine whether early genetic diagnosis can improve outcomes in Alport Syndrome.

#1966 Participation rate and yield of screening for albuminuria in the primary care setting for early identification of chronic kidney disease (SALINE)

Abstract Background and Aims Although guidelines recommend opportunistic screening for chronic kidney disease (CKD) in individuals with established risk factors, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease, screening for CKD in these individuals remains suboptimal. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an additional systematic home-based albuminuria screening program in patients at risk for CKD in a primary care setting. Method A cross-sectional screening study was performed in 10 general practices and 5 pharmacies in the Netherlands between Nov 2021-Nov 2023. A random selection of patients aged 45-80 years with risk factors for CKD progression was invited for home-based albuminuria screening. These patients were registered at their general practitioner (GP) or at the pharmacy. Patients in the GP-group were identified based on the following risk factors: diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, or obesity. Patients were excluded in case of a normal albuminuria status (ACR (albumin-creatinine ratio) <3.0 mg/mmol) within 18 months prior to the screening. Patients in the pharmacy-group were identified based on drug prescriptions for the aforementioned risk factors in the last 6 months. Home-based albuminuria screening was performed using a urine collection device that was sent by post to a central laboratory for ACR measurement. If the test result was positive upon confirmation (i.e. ≥two tests ACR ≥3 mg/mmol), patients were invited for an elaborate visit in the general practice or pharmacy, to assess presence of CKD and cardiovascular risk factors. Main outcomes were participation rate and yield of the home-based albuminuria screening in the total study population and in both screening groups separately. Secondary outcomes were the yield of persistent albuminuria despite treatment with RAS-inhibition in both screening groups and the yield of previously undiagnosed albuminuria in the GP-group. Results We invited 6 380 patients (2 578 via pharmacy registries and 3 802 via GP registries), of whom 2 147 completed the home-based screening, corresponding to a participation rate of 33.7%. The participation rate among GP patients was 41.4% (1 575/3 802), compared to 22.2% (572/2 578) among pharmacy patients (P < .001). Albuminuria was confirmed in 8.5% (134/3 802) and 5.6% (32/2 578) of the participants in the GP- and pharmacy-group, respectively. Among participants in the GP-group, 59.7% (80/134) had a positive albuminuria test within one year prior to the screening; the remaining 40.3% either had no albuminuria test (or a normal albuminuria test within one year prior to the screening. Of those with increased albuminuria in the GP- and pharmacy-group, 85.8% (115/134) and 81.3% (26/32) attended the elaborate screening visit, respectively. In the GP-group, 72.2% (83/115) had an eGFR >60 and only 19.1% (22/115) an adequate blood pressure (<130/80 mmHg), compared to 69.2% (18/26) and 19.2% (5/26) in the pharmacy-group. Of the albuminuric participants in the GP- and pharmacy-group, respectively, 44.3% (51/115) and 23.1% (6/26) were not treated with RAS inhibition, and 94.8% (109/115) and 96.2% (25/26), respectively, were not treated with an SGLT2 inhibitor. Many patients were not aware of having albuminuria before participating in the systematic home-based screening program 42.6% (109/115) in the GP-group vs. 61.5% (16/26) in the pharmacy-group). Conclusion In conclusion, systematic albuminuria screening in the primary care setting when added to regular opportunistic screening has an acceptable participation rate and yield when performed via GPs, but is less effective when performed via pharmacies. It identifies patients with yet unknown albuminuria and most of the identified patients may benefit of initiation or optimization of albuminuria-lowering treatment. The introduction of such systematic albuminuria screening programs via GPs merits further study.

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.

Albuminuria Is Affected by Urinary Tract Infection: A Comparison between Biochemical Quantitative Method and Automatic Urine Chemistry Analyzer UC-3500.

The automated urine reagent strip test is a cost-effective tool for detecting albuminuria in patients. However, prior research has not investigated how urinary tract infections (UTIs) affect the test's accuracy. Therefore, this study aims to assess the impact of UTIs on albuminuria diagnosis using both the biochemical quantitative method and the test strip method of the Fully Automatic Urine Chemistry Analyzer, UC-3500 (Sysmex, Kobe, Japan). From March to December 2019, we prospectively collected midstream urine from adult female UTI patients before and after one week of cephalexin treatment. The urine samples were subjected to culture, routine urinalysis, and albuminuria diagnosis using the biochemical quantitative method and UC-3500. Albuminuria was defined as a urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥ 30 mg/g in the biochemical quantitative method. The results were compared between the two methods. Among fifty-four female patients (average age: 50.5 ± 4.4 years) with UTIs, 24 (44.44%) had transient albuminuria. The quantitative UACR significantly decreased after one week of antibiotic treatment (median: 53 mg/g to 9 mg/g; median difference: -0.54, p < 0.0001). UC-3500 exhibited a higher false positive rate for diagnosing albuminuria during UTIs (42%) compared to after treatment (19%). Its agreement with the biochemical quantitative method was moderate during UTI (κ = 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24-0.73) and good after treatment (κ = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.45-0.86). UC-3500's accuracy in diagnosing albuminuria is influenced by UTIs, leading to either transient albuminuria or a false positive reaction of the test strip. UTI should be excluded or treated before its application in albuminuria screening.

Improving the identification and management of diabetic nephropathy in patients with diabetes in primary care.

Diabetic nephropathy is the leading cause of renal failure in the United States. Screening for albuminuria in individuals with diabetes is critical to identify the early stages of DKD. Prompt identification and management of DKD improves patient outcomes, increases life expectancy, and decreases health care costs. The DKD screening rate for patients ≥18 years of age with diabetes at the project site was 29%, below the national benchmark of 90%. Patients diagnosed with DKD were not receiving appropriate management. This quality-improvement project used a standardized protocol consisting of a checklist and educational initiatives to improve DKD identification and management. The Knowledge-to-Action Framework was used for this project at a primary care practice in the southeastern United States. Data collection included demographic data, DKD screening with urine albumin-to-creatine ratio, diagnosis rates, DKD treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi) or angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), and a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) reviewed 6 months before and after intervention. Evidence-based interventions included a DKD educational in-service for clinical staff, creation of a standardized protocol through a checklist for screening and appropriate management of DKD, and implementation of patient educational handouts. Diabetic kidney disease screening rates increased by 100%, patients diagnosed with DKD decreased by 8%, patients with DKD on ACEi/ARB increased by 39%, and patients with DKD on SGLT2i increased by 15%. Implementation of a standardized protocol through a checklist and providing patient education on DKD can improve DKD identification/management.

Cost-Effectiveness of Home-Based Screening for Albuminuria in the General Population in the Netherlands

Cost-Effectiveness of Home-Based Screening for Albuminuria in the General Population in the Netherlands

Participation rate and yield of two home-based screening methods to detect increased albuminuria in the general population in the Netherlands (THOMAS): a prospective, randomised, open-label implementation study

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a rising global prevalence and is expected to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2030. Increased albuminuria defines the early stages of CKD and is among the strongest risk factors for progressive CKD and cardiovascular disease. The value of population screening for albuminuria to detect CKD in an early phase has yet to be studied. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of two home-based albuminuria population screening methods. Towards Home-based Albuminuria Screening (THOMAS) was a prospective, randomised, open-label implementation study that invited Dutch adults aged 45-80 years for albuminuria screening. Individuals were randomly assigned (1:1) to screening by applying either a urine collection device (UCD) that was sent by post to a central laboratory for measurement of the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) by immunoturbidimetry or to screening via a smartphone application that measures the ACR with a dipstick method at home. Randomisation was done with a four-block method via a web-based system and was stratified by age, sex, and socioeconomic status. If two or more individuals per household were invited to participate, these individuals were randomly assigned to the same group. In case of confirmed increased albuminuria at home, participants were invited for an elaborate screening in a regional hospital (Amphia Hospital, Breda, Netherlands) for CKD and cardiovascular risk factors. When abnormalities were found, participants were referred to their general practitioner for treatment. The primary outcomes were the participation rate and yield of the home-based screening and elaborate screening. Participation rate was assessed in the intention-to-screen population (ie, all participants who were invited for the home-based screening or elaborate screening). Yield was assessed in the per-protocol population (ie, all individuals who participated in the home-based screening or elaborate screening). An exploratory analysis assessed the sensitivity and specificity of both home-based screening methods. To this end, an additional quantitative ACR test was performed among people participating in the elaborate screening, and a substudy was performed among participants with a first negative home-based screening test, who were invited for an additional test. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04295889. 15 074 participants were enrolled between Nov 14, 2019, and March 19, 2021. 7552 (50·1%) were randomly assigned to home-based albuminuria screening by the UCD method and 7522 (49·9%) were assigned to albuminuria screening by the smartphone application method. The participation rate of the home-based screening was 4484 (59·4% [95% CI 58·3-60·5]) of the 7552 invited individuals for the UCD method and 3336 (44·3% [43·2-45·5]) of 7522 invited individuals for the smartphone application method (p<0·0001). Increased ACR was confirmed by home-based testing in 150 (3·3% [95% CI 2·9-3·9]) of 4484 individuals for the UCD method and 171 (5·1% [4·4-5·9]) of 3336 indivduals for the smartphone application method. 124 (82·7% [95% CI 75·8-87·9]) of 150 individuals assigned to the UCD method and 142 (83·0% [76·7-87·9]) of 171 participants assigned to the smartphone application method attended the elaborate screening. Sensitivity to detect increased ACR was 96·6% (95% CI 91·5-99·1) for the UCD method and 98·1% (89·9-99·9) for the smartphone application method, and specificity was 97·3% (94·7-98·8) for the UCD method and 67·9% (62·0-73·3) for the smartphone application method, indicating that the test characteristics of only the UCD method were sufficient for screening. Albuminuria, hypertension, hypercholesterolaemia, and decreased kidney function were newly diagnosed in 77 (62·1%), 44 (35·5%), 30 (24·2%), and 27 (21·8%) of 124 participants for the UCD method, respectively. Of the 124 participants assigned to the UCD method who completed elaborate screening, 111 (89·5%) were referred to their general practitioner for treatment because of newly diagnosed CKD or cardiovascular disease risk factors or known risk factors outside the target range. Home-based screening of the general population for increased ACR using a UCD had a high participation rate and correctly identified individuals with increased albuminuria and yet unknown or known but outside target range CKD and cardiovascular risk factors. By contrast, the smartphone application method had a lower at-home participation rate than the UCD method and the test specificity was too low to accurately assess individuals for risk factors during the elaborate screening. The UCD screening strategy could allow for an early start of treatment to prevent progressive kidney function loss and cardiovascular disease in patients with CKD. Dutch Kidney Foundation, Top Sector Life Sciences & Health of the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Population-wide albuminuria screening: implications for CKD detection and management

Population-wide albuminuria screening: implications for CKD detection and management

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

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. 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. 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. 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.

The Phenotypic Spectrum of COL4A3 Heterozygotes

The penetrance and phenotypic spectrum of autosomal dominant Alport Syndrome (ADAS), affecting 1 in 106, remains understudied. Using data from 174,418 participants in the Geisinger MyCode/DiscovEHR study, an unselected health system-based cohort with whole exome sequencing, we identified 403 participants who were heterozygous for likely pathogenic COL4A3 variants. Phenotypic data was evaluated using International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes, laboratory data, and chart review. To evaluate the phenotypic spectrum of genetically-determined ADAS, we matched COL4A3 heterozygotes 1:5 to nonheterozygotes using propensity scores by demographics, hypertension, diabetes, and nephrolithiasis. COL4A3 heterozygotes were at significantly increased risks of hematuria, decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albuminuria, and kidney failure (P< 0.05 for all comparisons) but not bilateral sensorineural hearing loss (P= 0.9). Phenotypic severity was more severe for collagenous domain glycine missense variants than protein truncating variants (PTVs). For example, patients with Gly695Arg (n= 161) had markedly increased risk of dipstick hematuria (odds ratio [OR] 9.50; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.32, 14.28) and kidney failure (OR 7.02; 95% CI: 3.48, 14.16) whereas those with PTVs (n= 119) had moderately increased risks of dipstick hematuria (OR 1.64; 95% CI: 1.03, 2.59) and kidney failure (OR 3.44; 95% CI: 1.28, 9.22). Less than a third of patients had albuminuria screening completed, and fewer than 1 of 3 were taking inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. This study demonstrates a wide spectrum of phenotypic severity in ADAS due to COL4A3 with phenotypic variability by genotype. Future studies are needed to evaluate the impact of earlier diagnosis, appropriate evaluation, and treatment of ADAS.

A SPECIFIC 3 MONTHS-PROGRAM TO IMPROVE NON-ADHERENCE IN UNCONTROLLED HYPERTENSION IMPROVES BLOOD PRESSURE CONTROL AND ASSOCIATED ORGAN DAMAGE (ATHAN CLINICAL TRIAL)

Objective: To evaluate whether a specific 3-month(m) action plan to improve therapeutic adherence in patients with uncontrolled hypertension on ◊ 2 drugs results in a decrease in BP and whether this is maintained at 12m. Secondly, to assess if this correlates with an improvement in subclinical organ damage. Design and Method: Prospective, randomized clinical trial where patients attended consecutively in a Hypertension Unit with ambulatory 24h-BP ◊130/80 mmHg despite receiving at least 2 antihypertensive drugs and with therapeutic non-compliance confirmed by the determination of antihypertensive drugs in the urine, were randomized (1:1) to receive a specific 3-month program to improve adherence (INT = intervention) or routine follow-up (C = control). Antihypertensive treatment was not modified, but beyond 3m all patients received usual care. Before randomization, and at 3m and 12m, urinary screening for antihypertensive drugs and albuminuria, and 24h-ambulatory BP monitoring were determined. Results: Forty-six patients were randomized. At 3m, mean (95%CI) baseline-adjusted BP differences (INT vs. C) were -14.7 mmHg (-5.4 to -24.1), p = 0.001 and -10.0 mmHg (-3.9 to -16.2), p&lt;0.001 for 24h-SBP and 24h-DBP, respectively. The INT group maintained the BP decrease at 12m. vs. baseline: mean(95%CI) variation of 24h-SBP = -16.1 mmHg (-22.8 to -9.4), p&lt;0.001 and variation of 24h-DBP = -7.8 (-12.8 to -2.7), p = 0.002. In the INT group, the percentage of non-detected antihypertensive drugs decreased compared to baseline: median [IQR]: 40% [20-85.7], 0% [0-25], and 18.3 % [0-40] at baseline, 3m and 12m respectively; Z = -3.295 (p&lt;0.001) and Z = -3.055 (p = 0.002) for changes at 3m and 12m, respectively. Albuminuria (median [IQR]) decreased in the INT group: 27.1 mg/g [11.2-116.2] and 22.4 mg/g [6.4-91.9] at baseline and 12m, respectively (Z = -2.207, p = 0.027). At 12m, variation of albuminuria correlated with variation of 24h-BP but not with variation of percentage of non-detected antihypertensive drugs. Conclusions: a 3-month specific nursing intervention to improve therapeutic adherence results in improved BP control in patients with inadequate therapeutic compliance. This improvement continues beyond the completion of this program. Decreased BP correlates with a regression of albuminuria.

"Positive Kidney Health": Implementation and design of a pharmacist-led intervention for patients at risk for development or progression of chronic kidney disease.

Patients with early chronic kidney disease (CKD) or underlying risk factors are often unaware of their kidney test results, common causes of CKD, and ways to lower risk of disease onset/progression. To test feasibility of a pharmacist-led intervention targeting patient education and risk factors in patients with early CKD and those at risk for CKD. Ambulatory care pharmacists in community-based primary care clinics delivered kidney health education, ordered labs, and recommended medication adjustments. We identified patients with a moderate rate of decline (≥2 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year) in estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) at-risk for CKD or early stage CKD. An interactive workbook was designed to teach patients about kidney test results and self-management of risk factors including hypertension, type 2 diabetes, cigarette smoking, and chronic oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. Outcomes included visit uptake, completion of annual albuminuria screening, and initiation of guideline-directed medications for CKD. Patients were surveyed pre- and post-intervention for kidney health knowledge and perceptions regarding pharmacist-provided information. Our sample of 20 participants had a mean eGFR of 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 and the meaneGFR decline was-4.6 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year. There were 47 visits during the pilot period from February 2021 to October 2021. Thirteen patients were missing albuminuria screening within 12 months; 2 of 9 patients with resulting labs had new microalbuminuria and were started on renoprotective medications. Patients had improved understanding of their kidney function test results and most did not consider the information scary or confusing. Barriers to enrollment included fewer participants with multiple risk factors for CKD. The pharmacists were able to engage patients in learning the importance of monitoring and self-management of kidney health. A collaborative practice agreement may enhance a similar intervention that includes initiation of renoprotective medications.

EE318 Evaluating the Cost Effectiveness of the Towards Home-Based Albuminuria Screening (THOMAS) Study for Early Detection and Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease

Screening for albuminuria allows for early detection and treatment of individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD), which is a risk factor for experiencing cardiovascular events (CVEs). Currently, the evidence on the cost effectiveness of screening for albuminuria in the general population is not conclusive. This study aimed to evaluate the cost effectiveness of a home-based general population screening (45-80 years old) for increased albuminuria in the Netherlands.

Performance evaluation of Hipee S2 point-of-care testing urine dipstick analyser: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveWith advances in mobile technology, smartphone-based point-of-care testing (POCT) urinalysis hold great potential for disease screening and health management for clinicians and individual users. The purpose of this study is...