AIM CKD UK - Assessing and IMproving Creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate equations to evaluate Kidney Disease in the UK

Health

AIM CKD UK - Assessing and IMproving Creatinine-based estimated glomerular filtration rate equations to evaluate Kidney Disease in the UK

The AIM CKD UK study is a retrospective, multi-centre observational study assessing the accuracy and precision of different estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equations in diverse UK populations. The study will compare measured GFR (mGFR) against commonly used eGFR equations (e.g., CKD-EPI, MDRD, EKFC) in adults and children, including ethnic minority groups such as South Asian, Black, East Asian, and Southeast Asian populations.

The project will also develop and validate a UK-specific eGFR equation (EKFCUK) to improve accuracy and reduce bias in kidney function estimation across all age groups. This research is crucial for refining national guidelines and ensuring equitable clinical decision-making for people of all ethnicities.

The study uses anonymized patient data extracted from clinical records, including blood test results and mGFR assessments performed via nuclear medicine scans. Findings will be reviewed with patient groups, including Kidney Care UK, the Africa Advocacy Foundation, and the UK Kidney Association, to create recommendations for presenting eGFR data in a meaningful way for patients and healthcare providers.

Aims

Assess the accuracy and precision of existing eGFR equations compared to mGFR in multi-ethnic UK populations.
Develop and validate a UK-specific eGFR equation (EKFCUK).
Identify potential biases in creatinine-based eGFR estimation for different ethnic groups.
Co-develop patient-friendly materials to improve communication of kidney function estimates.

Methods

Study Design: Retrospective data-only, multi-centre study.
Population: People in the UK who have had a measured GFR test and creatinine (or cystatin-C) test within 30 days (2009-2024).
Data Collection: Age, sex, ethnicity, blood test results, and mGFR results.
Equation Development: Creating a UK-specific EKFCUK equation by analyzing median creatinine levels in different population groups.

Trials Design

Observational, retrospective data analysis across multiple NHS sites in the UK.

Impact

Improved accuracy of kidney function estimation in diverse UK populations.
Development of a UK-specific eGFR equation (EKFCUK) for better clinical decision-making.
Recommendations for national guidelines on eGFR reporting and patient communication.

Project status: Ongoing