uACR testing improves early kidney damage detection in diabetes

New approaches to the early detection of kidney damage in diabetes patients are focusing on improved risk stratification. Central to these efforts is the uACR test, which measures the albumin-to-creatinine ratio in urine. This standardized test, recommended by the international organization KDIGO for at least ten years, is used alongside the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) to precisely assess renal risks.

Research indicates that the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors are particularly evident in patients with detectable albuminuria. While the diagnostic utility of the uACR test is well-established, reports from IQVIA suggest that widespread implementation remains inconsistent. For example, in Italy, the procedure is available but not yet uniformly integrated into standard care pathways.

Early detection is critical, as cardiovascular diseases account for approximately 1.7 million deaths annually in Europe. Estimates suggest that roughly 80 percent of these cases could be avoided through consistent early detection and lifestyle changes.