Albuminuria among Alaska Natives--findings from the Genetics of Coronary Artery Disease in Alaska Natives (GOCADAN) study.

Background: The prevalence and associated risk factors for albuminuria and low-grade albuminuria in Alaska Natives is not known.

Methods: Cross-sectional analysis of the Genetics of Coronary Artery Disease in Alaska Natives Study. We included 1,026 individuals, who represent 85% of the study participants for whom complete data were available. Risk factors examined were age, sex, education, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, lipids, C-reactive protein, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor use, and smoking status. Urine albumin excretion was estimated by the albumin/creatinine ratio measured from a single random morning urine sample. Albuminuria was defined as an albumin/creatinine ratio of > or =30 mg/g. Low-grade albuminuria was defined as an albumin/creatinine ratio of 10 to <30 mg/g.

Results: The mean age was 42 years and over half were female. Diabetes prevalence was low at 3% and the prevalence of hypertension was 20%. The prevalence of albuminuria was 6%; the prevalence of low-grade albuminuria was 12%. Individuals with diabetes or hypertension were 3 times more likely to have albuminuria than those without these conditions [odd ratios: diabetes 3.0 (1.2-7.9) and hypertension 3.0 (1.2-7.3)].

Conclusions: The burden of albuminuria is low. Comprehensive programs and policies are important given the rise in diabetes and hypertension among Alaska Natives.