Biochemical Assessment of Kidney Function Decline in Patients with Hypertension in Kwara State

Hypertensive nephropathy is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease in Nigeria, yet structured biochemical monitoring of renal function in hypertensive patients remains inconsistent in many public health settings. This study undertakes a biochemical assessment of renal function decline in hypertensive patients attending a general hospital in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria. A retrospective longitudinal design was employed, reviewing serial laboratory records of 150 hypertensive patients managed over a three-year period. Parameters extracted included serum creatinine, urea, estimated glomerular filtration rate calculated by the CKD-EPI formula, urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio, and serum electrolytes. Blood pressure control status, antihypertensive medication history, and use of nephrotoxic agents including analgesics and herbal preparations were documented. The trajectory of eGFR decline was modelled using linear mixed-effects analysis. The study identifies biochemical patterns predictive of progressive renal deterioration in this population. Findings will support the integration of structured renal biochemical monitoring into hypertension management protocols in secondary and tertiary care facilities in North Central Nigeria. Keywords: hypertensive nephropathy, renal function, eGFR, serum creatinine, Kwara State.