A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Association of SGLT2 Inhibitors to Renal Protection in Patients with Diabetic Kidney Disease

Introduction: Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains a leading cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide despite optimal renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have emerged as potential renoprotective agents, yet the totality of evidence across diverse study designs, populations, and renal outcomes requires comprehensive synthesis. This systematic review aims to evaluate the association between SGLT2 inhibitors and renal protection in patients with DKD, synthesizing evidence from randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses. Methods: A comprehensive systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. We screened studies based on predefined criteria including adult patients (≥18 years) with DKD, SGLT2 inhibitor intervention, renal outcomes reported (eGFR decline, albuminuria reduction, progression to ESRD), study designs including RCTs and observational studies, follow-up ≥12 weeks, and exclusion of case reports/series. Data extraction encompassed study characteristics, SGLT2 inhibitor details, population demographics, renal outcomes, effect sizes, mechanisms, and adverse effects. Methodological quality was assessed using Cochrane risk of bias tools and Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results: From the evidence base comprising over 90,000 participants across landmark trials (CREDENCE, DAPA-CKD, EMPA-KIDNEY) and numerous meta-analyses, SGLT2 inhibitors consistently demonstrated significant renal protection. Pooled analyses showed 30-40% risk reduction in composite renal outcomes (HR 0.61-0.71, 95% CI), 25-35% reduction in albuminuria progression, and 30% slower eGFR decline. Benefits were consistent across subgroups including baseline eGFR