Evaluation of the Three Main Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) Equations in a Black African Population: A Cross-Sectional Study among Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Ghana

Abstract

Background: Almost all Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) equations were derived from populations primarily consisting of whites (Caucasians) with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although the race correction factor for African Americans has been extrapolated to Black Africans, studies in some parts of Africa suggest that the use of the race factor for Black Africans may be inappropriate. Thus, this study sought to assess how well the Cockcroft–Gault (CG), 4-variable Modification of Diet and Renal Disease (4v-MDRD) and the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equations work in a Ghanaian population at risk of CKD. Methods: The study involved 81 diabetic males and 324 diabetic females attending the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Ghana. Blood and urine samples were collected, and serum creatinine measured in blood was used in GFR estimation using the CG, 4v-MDRD, and CKD-EPI equations. Data was analyzed using GraphPad Prism version 5.00 and SPSS version 20, both of which are known for their accuracy, precision, practicality and consistency. Results were expressed as mean ± SD. Unpaired t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare mean values of continuous variables, and Pearson’s correlation and linear regression were used to test for associations. Chi-square test was also used to test for associations between categorized variables. Agreement between the three CKD equations was assessed by the Bland-Altman statistic. Statistical significance was defined as p-value <0.05. The study was approved by the Committees on Human Research Publications and Ethics (CHRPE), and the Research and Development Unit of KATH. The study was conducted in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards. Written consent was obtained from all participants.