A generally accepted "best" eGFR level does not exist as eGFR naturally declines with age. Instead, the goal is to maintain an eGFR that is appropriate for one's age and to identify potential health issues early. According to the National Kidney Foundation, normal eGFR ranges vary by age group.
Understanding eGFR
eGFR, or estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, measures how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. A higher eGFR generally indicates better kidney function. However, "best" is relative to age. A younger adult should have a higher eGFR than an older adult due to natural age-related decline.
Age-Related eGFR Averages
| Age (years) | Average eGFR |
|---|---|
| 40–49 | 99 |
| 50–59 | 93 |
| 60–69 | 85 |
| 70+ | 75 |
Key takeaways regarding eGFR:
- eGFR naturally decreases with age, so what’s considered “normal” for one age group is not the same for another.
- A healthy eGFR for a younger person would be considered an indication of potentially reduced kidney function in someone who is older.
- eGFR values above 60 are generally within the normal range, but should be interpreted based on the individual's age and other health conditions.
- If your eGFR is below 60, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider as this may indicate chronic kidney disease.
- The goal is to monitor eGFR over time to identify any significant declines, which might indicate a problem requiring treatment.
Examples
- A 55-year-old with an eGFR of 95 likely has healthy kidney function.
- An 80-year-old with an eGFR of 72 might also have a generally healthy kidney function given their age.
- A 45-year-old with an eGFR of 70 may need further evaluation because this might be lower than expected for their age.
In summary, the "best" eGFR is not a single number but an age-appropriate value. Regular monitoring and consultation with healthcare professionals are essential to assess individual eGFR levels and ensure optimal kidney health.
