EPI-CKD Brazil: point-of-care screening for chronic kidney disease during World Kidney Day

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a public health issue, with an estimated prevalence of 10% in Brazil, possibly underestimated due to regional inequalities and diagnostic limitations. The EPI-CKD Brazil study aimed to estimate the prevalence of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 in adults with risk factor for CKD, using point-of-care creatinine testing (POCTcr) during World Kidney Day 2025, and to assess regional variations and associated predictors.

We conducted a multicenter cross-sectional study across 20 state chapters of the Brazilian Society of Nephrology, including individuals ≥ 18 years with at least one CKD risk factor (age > 60 years, hypertension [HTN], diabetes mellitus [DM], cardiovascular disease, obesity, chronic use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, history of acute kidney injury, bilateral kidney stones, or family history of CKD). Renal function was assessed using a rapid creatinine test (NovaMaxPro®-eGFR CKD-EPI 2021). Reduced eGFR was defined as < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2.

We analyzed 8,374 participants (66.9% women; median age, 58 years; BMI, 28.3 kg/m2; 46.2% mixed race). The frequency of reduced eGFR was 40.2% (n = 3,370), of whom 36% were in stages G3b-G5. Only 35.2% were aware of CKD risk factors. Significant regional differences were observed (ranging from 27.9% [Bahia] to 55.2% [Paraná]; p < 0.001). Independent predictors included age (OR = 1.032; 95%CI: 1.028-1.035), HTN (OR = 1.27; 95%CI: 1.15-1.40), and indigenous ethnicity as a protective factor (OR = 0.40; 95%CI: 0.20-0.89; p < 0.05). Risk increased by 23% for each additional risk factor.

A high frequency of reduced eGFR and low awareness of CKD risk factors were observed. The study demonstrates the feasibility of POCTcr in screening strategies and reinforces the need for public policies to expand early diagnosis and strengthen primary care.