Association of kidney function with physical performance: the Maastricht study

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Gerontology
• Physical Medicine

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often associated with reduced physical capacity.
• Limited evidence exists on the physical performance of individuals in earlier stages of CKD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between kidney function markers (eGFR and albuminuria) and physical performance in a large population-based cohort.
• To explore the relationship between different levels of kidney function and various physical performance tests.

Main Methods:

• Utilized cross-sectional data from the prospective, population-based Maastricht Study.
• Employed multivariate linear regression models to assess associations.
• Included 7396 participants, analyzing estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and albuminuria categories against physical performance outcomes.

Main Results:

• Lower eGFR (<60 ml/min/1.73 m²) was significantly associated with shorter 6-minute walk distance, slower chair rise times, and reduced grip and elbow flexion strength.
• Higher albuminuria (>30 mg/24 h) showed similar associations with poorer physical performance.
• Higher eGFR (>90 ml/min/1.73 m²) was also linked to a shorter 6-minute walk distance, indicating a non-linear relationship.

Conclusions:

• Reduced kidney function (lower eGFR) and increased albuminuria are associated with worse physical performance, including decreased muscle strength and endurance.
• The relationship between eGFR and physical function is non-linear; very high eGFR values may also be associated with diminished physical performance, particularly in walking tests.