Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Retrospective Analysis from a United Kingdom (UK) Centre

Background: Renal transplantation is the optimal treatment for end-stage renal disease (ESRD), offering improved survival compared to dialysis. However, renal transplant recipients (RTRs) continue to experience high cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. CV disease remains the leading cause of death in RTRs. This study evaluated the prevalence and control of traditional CV risk factors in RTRs at a large NHS Trust in the Southwest of the UK for a catchment population of 650,000, using British Transplantation Society (BTS) and KDIGO guideline targets. Methods: A retrospective data collection was conducted for all RTRs under active follow-up (n=318) using local renal database (VitalData). Results within the past 12 months were analysed for five modifiable CV risk factors: glycaemic control (HbA1c), dyslipidaemia, hypertension, obesity, and smoking status. Data capture rate was assessed, as well as CV risk factor adherence to BTS and KDIGO guidelines. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 57.7 ± 12.9 years; 59% were male, with a mean time since transplant of 10.1 ± 5.6 years. Table: Cardiovascular Risk Factors in RTRs with reference ranges in adherence to BTS/KDIGO Targets Conclusion: - Glycaemic and lipid monitoring rates were high; however, many patients exceeded BTS targets. - Blood pressure control was poor, with 70% having systolic hypertension. - Obesity was common among those with BMI recorded, with over one-third classified as obese. - Smoking status and BP were not documented in over one-third of patients, highlighting monitoring gaps. - This underscores the need for structured CV risk factor assessment and targeted interventions to improve long-term graft and patient outcomes.Table of results: Cardiovascular Risk Factors in RTRs with reference ranges in adherence to BTS/KDIGO Targets