Community-Based Screening for Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) incubates for years before kidney function declines to such low levels that patients develop symptoms and present for medical evaluation. The earlier in its course that CKD is identified, the more likely that medical care can slow or stop further worsening toward complete loss of kidney function, or end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). Individuals living in low income, largely minority communities are at greater risk for CKD than those in wealthier, non-minority communities but have historic mistrust of research. This project will conduct screening for high levels of a urine protein called albumin, indicating underlying CKD, in churches known to have the trust of communities, to identify asymptomatic individuals with CKD to be offered referral for kidney-protective medical care. Upon completion, this project will determine if individuals so identified with CKD will 1) accept referral for CKD care; 2) remain in care for at least 12 months; and 3) achieve a reduction in urine albumin levels, indicating CKD improvement. As such, this project will determine the value of community-based screening to reduce CKD prevalence.