What is the CKD-EPI 2021 equation?

CKD-EPI 2021 is a newer equation that is more accurate for normal and mildly reduced kidney function.

How does diabetes affect kidney health?

Diabetes is a leading cause of CKD. Controlling blood sugar helps protect kidney function.

Can lifestyle changes improve eGFR?

Hydration, blood pressure control, diet, and avoiding NSAIDs can help preserve kidney function.

5 more

RISINGNational Kidney Foundation, CDCFebruary 2026🇺🇸 USNephrology

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1 in 7 Adults Has Chronic Kidney Disease — Most Don't Know

37 million Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD), but 90% don't know it because early stages have no symptoms. Early detection through GFR testing and risk assessment can slow progression and prevent dialysis. This calculator estimates your kidney health score based on lab values and risk factors.

Concept Fundamentals

1 in 7

CKD Prevalence

US adults

90%

Undiagnosed

Don't know

>90

GFR Normal

mL/min

$91K/yr

Dialysis Cost

Average

Ready to run the numbers?

Why: 37 million Americans have CKD, but 90% don't know it because early stages have no symptoms. eGFR <60 for 3+ months indicates CKD; <15 often requires dialysis. Early detection through GFR testing and risk assessment can slow progression. Diabetes and hypertension are leading causes.

How: The calculator uses CKD-EPI 2021: eGFR = 142 × (Cr/κ)^α × 0.9938^Age (κ, α gender-dependent). CKD stages: 1 (≥90), 2 (60–89), 3a (45–59), 3b (30–44), 4 (15–29), 5 (<15). Kidney health score starts at eGFR and adjusts for urine albumin, BP, diabetes, water intake, diet, NSAIDs, and smoking.

eGFR from creatinine, age, and gender (CKD-EPI 2021)CKD stage and risk level

Methodology

🩺Lab Values

Creatinine, BUN, urine albumin, BP systolic

📊Lifestyle Factors

Water intake, diet, NSAID use, smoking

📈Visual Breakdown

Metrics vs normal bar chart, health factor doughnut

Sources:National Kidney FoundationNKF KDOQI

Run the calculator when you are ready.

Check Your Kidney HealthAssess kidney function with GFR estimation and risk factors

Sample Scenarios

Click a scenario to load example values:

✅ Healthy young adult

Normal creatinine, good habits.

⚠️ Mild CKD stage 2

eGFR 75, elevated albumin.

🩺 Diabetic patient

Diabetes, BP elevated.

🔴 High creatinine elderly

Age 75, Cr 1.8.

Calculator Inputs

Demographics & Labs

Age

years

Gender

Weight (kg)

Serum Creatinine (mg/dL)

Blood Urea Nitrogen (mg/dL)

Urine Albumin (mg/L)

Lifestyle & Conditions

BP Systolic

mmHg

Diabetes

Daily Water (L)

Diet

NSAID Use

Smoking

Kidney Health Score

92/100

eGFR: 95 mL/min/1.73m²

Stage 1 (Normal) · Low Risk

numbervibe.com/calculators/trending/kidney-health-score-calculator

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Healthy Kidney Function

eGFR: 95 mL/min/1.73m² · Stage 1 (Normal)

KIDNEY HEALTH ANALYSIS

Health Score

92/100

eGFR

CKD Stage

Risk

Low

eGFR Stage Cards

Stage 1

≥90

Normal

← You

Stage 2

60-89

Mild

Stage 3a

45-59

Moderate

Stage 3b-4

15-44

Mod-Severe

Stage 5

<15

Kidney Failure

Risk Factor Comparison

Diabetes

✓ None

Hypertension

✓ In range

NSAIDs / Smoking

✓ Low risk

Kidney Function Trend (eGFR with Interventions)

Current

+Hydration

+BP control

+All

Illustrative: hydration, BP control, and lifestyle changes may help preserve or improve eGFR over time.

Kidney Metrics vs Normal

Health Factor Breakdown

Calculation Steps

eGFR (CKD-EPI 2021)

eGFR

95 mL/min/1.73m²

BUN/Creatinine ratio

15 / 1 = 15.0

CKD Stage

Stage 1 (Normal)

KIDNEY HEALTH SCORE

Lifestyle adjustments

Final score: 92/100

Risk level

Low

For educational and informational purposes only. Verify with a qualified professional.

What is your kidney health score and how is eGFR calculated?

Your kidney health score combines eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) with lifestyle factors. eGFR >90 is normal; <60 for 3+ months indicates CKD. Berries, olive oil, and fatty fish may support kidney function. Stay hydrated and limit NSAIDs. Consult a nephrologist for concerns.

What are the key takeaways for kidney health?

• eGFR >90: Normal. <60 for 3+ months = CKD.
• 3 foods for kidney function: Berries, olive oil, fatty fish (in moderation).
• Stay hydrated: 2+ L/day helps kidneys. Avoid excess protein if CKD.
• Limit NSAIDs: Frequent use can harm kidneys.

💡 Did You Know?

CKD-EPI 2021: Newer equation, more accurate for normal/mildly reduced function.

BUN/Cr ratio: High ratio can suggest dehydration; low may indicate liver disease.

How does the kidney health calculator work?

eGFR uses CKD-EPI 2021: 142 × (Cr/κ)^α × 0.9938^Age (κ, α gender-dependent). CKD stages: 1 (≥90), 2 (60–89), 3a (45–59), 3b (30–44), 4 (15–29), 5 (<15). Kidney health score starts at eGFR and adjusts for urine albumin, BP, diabetes, water intake, diet, NSAIDs, and smoking.

🎯 Expert Tips

Control BP & sugar

Hypertension and diabetes are top causes of CKD. Keep both in range.

Plant-based options

Some studies show plant-based diets may slow CKD progression.

❓ FAQ

What foods improve kidney function?

Berries (antioxidants), olive oil (anti-inflammatory), fatty fish (omega-3). Limit sodium and phosphorus if CKD.

When is eGFR concerning?

eGFR <60 for 3+ months indicates CKD. <15 often requires dialysis or transplant.

📊 Stats

>90

eGFR normal

37M

US adults CKD

Water/day

9 in 10

Don't know CKD

📚 Sources

National Kidney Foundation, CKD-EPI 2021 equation, NKF Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative

National Kidney Foundation NKF KDOQI

⚠️ Disclaimer

Estimates only. Lab values required for diagnosis. Consult a nephrologist for kidney concerns.