Recent recognitions of longstanding societal effects of structural and overt acts of racism have led to calls for the elimination of race, a social construct, from medical algorithms. This accelerated a growing concern with the use of race in kidney function estimating equations. A task force sponsored by the two leading nephrology societies in the United States has reassessed the inclusion of race in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimation and recently put forth recommendations. New race-free equations have been developed and guides for widespread implementation have been provided. We herein review the journey of kidney function estimating equations, race in GFR estimating equations, new race-free equations and the path forward in caring for chronic kidney disease. We urge upon all primary care providers to employ concerted focus on early detection and identification of kidney dysfunction as well as risk factors including social determinants of health to prevent progression.
Keywords: Estimated glomerular filtration rate; Health disparities; Health equity; Kidney function; Race.
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