Managing cardiovascular risk factors in patients with chronic kidney disease: pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in the Copenhagen CKD Cohort

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background Although cardiovascular morbidity and mortality are substantial in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), guideline-directed treatment of cardiovascular risk factors remains a challenge. Methods Observational, cross-sectional study including patients aged 30–75 years with CKD stage 1–5 without kidney replacement therapy from a tertiary hospital outpatient clinic. Data were obtained through patient interview, clinical examination, biochemical work-up, and evaluation of medical records and prescription redemptions. Guideline-directed treatment was evaluated as pharmacological interventions: antihypertensive and lipid-lowering therapy including adverse effects and adherence estimated as medication possession ratio (MPR); and non-pharmacological interventions: smoking status, alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity. Results The cohort comprised 741 patients, mean age 58 years, 61.4% male, 50.6% CKD stage 3, 61.0% office blood pressure ≤140/90 mmHg. Antihypertensives were prescribed to 87.0%, median number of medications 2 (IQR 1;3), 70.1% received renin–angiotensin system inhibition, 25.9% reported adverse effects. Non-adherence (MPR < 80%) was present in 23.4% and associated with elevated blood pressure (OR 1.53 (95% CI 1.03;2.27)) and increased urinary albumin excretion, P < 0.001. Lipid-lowering treatment was prescribed to 54.0% of eligible patients, 11.1% reported adverse effects, and 28.5% were non-adherent, which was associated with higher LDL cholesterol, P = 0.036. Overall, 19.2% were current smokers, 16.7% overconsumed alcohol according to Danish health authority recommendations 69.3% had BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, and 38.3% were physically active <4 hours/week. Among patients prescribed antihypertensives, 51.9% reported having received advice on non-pharmacological interventions. Conclusions Improved management of cardiovascular risk in patients with CKD entails intensified medical treatment and increased focus on patient adherence and non-pharmacological interventions.