Low physical function is a risk factor for mortality in non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease patients

Abstract

The progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with functional impairment [1, 2]. However, little is known about the impact of compromised physical function on health outcomes in patients with CKD without need for kidney replacement therapy (KRT) [2, 3]. Evaluation of physical function can be used as a screening tool and in the development of intervention protocols that reduce the risks of patient-centered adverse outcomes. Additionally, handgrip strength and gait speed are easy-to-perform and low-cost markers. This study aimed to evaluate whether low physical function is associated with hospitalization and mortality in patients with CKD without need for KRT.

This cohort study was conducted prospectively and included patients diagnosed with CKD stages 3b–5 without KRT, age 18–80 years, of both genders, and under regular follow-up in two nephrology outpatient clinics in Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil. CKD stages 3b-5 were confirmed by estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≤ 45 mL/min/1.73 m2, using the baseline creatinine value and the CKD Epidemiology Collaboration equation. Patients with the following conditions were excluded: active neoplasia, liver cirrhosis, kidney transplant, pregnancy, limb amputation, or physical walking impairment.