An Early Sign of Chronic Kidney Disease Development Identified 0 9

Even slight deviations in kidney function — formally remaining within the norm — may indicate an increased risk of developing chronic kidney disease. This conclusion was reached by researchers from the Karolinska Institute, who published their work in the journal Kidney International (KI).

The scientists analyzed nearly 7 million kidney function tests from more than 1.1 million residents of Sweden and demonstrated that not only the absolute value of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is crucial, but also its position relative to age and sex norms. Individuals whose eGFR fell below the 25th percentile for their group had a significantly higher risk of kidney failure and premature death — even if the value itself was considered "normal."

Based on this data, the team developed an online tool that allows doctors to compare a patient's result with the distribution of values in the population — similar to growth charts used in pediatrics. According to the authors, this approach helps identify vulnerable patients at an early stage when preventive measures can still slow down or prevent disease progression.

The researchers note that today such signals are often ignored: only a quarter of people with a reduced eGFR relative to age norms are referred for further examinations. They believe the new method provides an opportunity to shift from late diagnosis to real prevention of chronic kidney diseases.