Ethnic and Geographic Disparities in Proteinuria and High Blood Pressure: A Cross-Sectional Study from Community Kidney Screenings in the Washington DC Area

chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects 14% of U.S adults, with 90% unaware of their condition. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1,597 adults through community screenings in underserved areas of the Washington DC Metropolitan Area, assessing proteinuria and high blood pressure using urine dipstick tests and automated blood pressure cuffs. African Americans were the predominant group and exhibited the highest prevalence of proteinuria and high blood pressure, followed by Hispanic/Latino individuals, with Caucasians having the lowest rates. Adjusted analysis showed African Americans and Hispanic/Latino participants had significantly higher odds of significantly elevated blood pressure (>160/95) compared to Caucasians. Crude analysis revealed higher proteinuria rates among residents of DC Wards 1-4 and 7-8, and Maryland, compared to Virginia. Of 245 high-risk participants contacted post-screening, 92 (37.6%) responded; 48 (52.2%) had visited a physician and 31 (33.7%) intended to seek care. Awareness surveys indicated that 60% of respondents reported increased CKD awareness after the intervention. Our findings highlight significant ethnic and geographic disparities in CKD risk factors, particularly among African Americans and specific DC wards. Community outreach screenings can enhance early detection, improve healthcare engagement, and potentially reduce CKD progression, leading to better access to transplantation and post-transplant outcomes.