SCREENING OF KIDNEY FUNCTION BIOMARKERS FOR CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE PREDICTION AND FINANCIAL HEALTH BENEFIT

Abstract

Introduction Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health problem, affecting more than 10% of the global population. This alarming increase is due to multiple factors, including an aging population worldwide and the increasing prevalence of metabolic diseases. Management of CKD and its associated complications is a major challenge of health systems due to the high cost of treating this catastrophic disease. Method A comprehensive search of the published literature in Scopus was conducted. The search strategy was designed to identify studies reporting the economic impact of CKD, as well as studies evaluating the cost-effectiveness of biomarkers for predicting CKD. Results The use of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and microalbuminuria, as biomarkers for predicting progression of chronic kidney disease is a cost-effective strategy especially in people with high-risk CKD population. This may lead to a reduction in healthcare costs associated with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), including the need for expensive renal replacement therapies such as hemodialysis, Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), and kidney transplantation. Discussion The use of eGFR and microalbuminuria as biomarkers to predict CKD progression and patient outcomes appears to be a cost-effective strategy. Conclusions These biomarkers may improve early detection and management of CKD, potentially helping to reduce the substantial economic burden. Keywords: Cost effectiveness; eGFR; microalbuminuria