Prevalence of Testing for Albuminuria in Saudi Adults at Risk for CKD

Background: DM and HTN are the most significant risk factors leading to CKD. Early detection through urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio is important to improve outcomes and reducing the progression of CKD. The aim of our study is to estimate the prevalence of albuminuria testing in primary health care clinics among Saudi patients at risk of developing CKD Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional, we included adults aged 18 years or older who were diagnosed with DM and/or HTN and had attended at least two outpatient visits within the study year. Results: A total of 516 eligible patients were included in this study. 16.1% had HTN alone, 11.4% had DM alone, and 72.5% had both HTN and DM. The prevalence of ACR testing was 69% in patients with DM alone, while it was 66% in those with both HTN and DM. Only 19% of those with HTN alone had at least one ACR testing. Patients who underwent ACR testing had significantly higher HbA1c levels (mean = 7.5) compared to those who did not (mean = 6.6; p < 0.001). They also had a higher number of outpatient visits. Conclusion: Despite clinical recommendations, ACR testing remains suboptimal, particularly among patients with HTN and DM. These findings highlight gaps in adherence to KDIGO guidelines in primary care, especially among HTN and DM patients