Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about kidney failure risk and the KFRE
The Kidney Failure Risk Calculator estimates the probability of kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplant within 2 and 5 years for adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD). It specifically uses the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) that incorporates age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR). This validated tool provides risk percentages and categorizes individuals into low, moderate, high, or very high-risk groups.
To use the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator, input your age, sex, eGFR, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) into the designated fields. Ensure that you have accurate readings for eGFR and uACR, which can be obtained from recent lab tests. After entering these values, the calculator will generate a risk percentage and assign a risk category, along with a visual risk gauge to help you understand your risk level.
The Kidney Failure Risk Calculator is based on the 4-variable Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE) derived from extensive research involving over 700,000 CKD patients across 31 international cohorts. The formula integrates age, sex, eGFR, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio to accurately predict the likelihood of kidney failure. This evidence-based approach ensures that the calculator is both reliable and clinically relevant.
The results of the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator provide a percentage that reflects your estimated risk of developing kidney failure within the next 2 to 5 years. Additionally, the output categorizes your risk into low, moderate, high, or very high, allowing for easier interpretation of your health status. A visual risk gauge complements these results, providing a quick overview of your risk level.
A normal eGFR value is typically above 90 mL/min/1.73 m², indicating normal kidney function, while values below 60 mL/min/1.73 m² may indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD). For urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR), a healthy level is generally considered to be less than 30 mg/g or 3 mg/mmol. Values above these thresholds may suggest increased risk and warrant closer monitoring.
While the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator is a validated tool, it has limitations, including its applicability primarily to adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and may not be suitable for individuals with acute kidney injury or other kidney-related disorders. The risk estimates also depend on accurate input values; inaccuracies in eGFR or uACR can lead to misleading results. Always consult with a healthcare professional for comprehensive risk assessment and management.
Individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those at various stages of the disease, should consider using the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator to understand their risk of progression to kidney failure. It is especially useful for patients with known risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension. Healthcare providers may also use this tool to guide treatment decisions and monitoring strategies.
The Kidney Failure Risk Calculator may be used periodically to monitor changes in kidney health, particularly at routine follow-up appointments, or if there are significant changes in your health status or lab results. It is advisable to use the calculator annually or whenever there is a change in eGFR or uACR values. Regular use helps track progression and informs timely intervention.
You should consult a healthcare professional if the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator indicates a high or very high risk of kidney failure, or if you have concerns about your kidney health. Additionally, if you experience symptoms such as swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination, it is crucial to seek medical advice. Regular consultations with a physician can ensure appropriate management and intervention strategies are implemented.
The risk categories generated by the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator—low, moderate, high, and very high—are based on statistical probabilities and may not account for individual health variations or comorbidities. Patients may have different health trajectories despite similar risk scores. Therefore, these categories should serve as a guide rather than definitive outcomes, emphasizing the importance of personalized medical advice.
While the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator has been validated in diverse populations across 31 international cohorts, its applicability to populations outside these studies may be limited. Variations in genetics, lifestyle, and healthcare access can influence risk factors and outcomes. It's recommended to interpret results with caution and consult healthcare professionals familiar with your specific background and health context.
Age is a key variable in the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator, as the risk of kidney failure generally increases with advancing age. Older adults may be at higher risk due to factors like reduced kidney function and the accumulation of chronic conditions. The calculator adjusts risk estimates based on age, allowing for a more tailored assessment of kidney failure risk.
The Kidney Failure Risk Calculator supports the entry of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) in both mg/g and mg/mmol units. This flexibility allows users to input results based on their laboratory's reporting format. It is important to ensure that the correct unit is used to obtain accurate risk estimates.
Sex is an important factor in the Kidney Failure Risk Calculator, as research shows that men and women have different risks for kidney failure. Typically, men may have a higher risk due to factors such as higher rates of certain chronic conditions. The calculator accounts for these differences by adjusting the risk estimates based on the user's sex.