Correlation of CRP/HDL-C ratio with diabetic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: evidence from the NHANES 2015–2020

Objectives Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus and a leading cause of end-stage renal disease worldwide. The C-reactive protein/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (CRP/HDL-C) ratio (CHR) is a novel inflammatory-lipid composite index. We aim to determine whether it is an independent risk factor for DKD. Methods This study analyzed data from 2,621 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2015 to 2020. We employed weighted logistic regression, interaction effect assessments, and smooth curve fitting to verify the research objectives. Results There was a positive association between the CRP/HDL-C ratio and the incidence of DKD, post-adjustment for possible confounding variables. Elevated levels of CHR correlated with a heightened risk of developing DKD (odds ratio=1.12; 95 % confidence interval=1.02–1.23, p<0.05). Conclusions Our findings reveal a significant positive correlation between CHR and DKD among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. CHR serves as an independent risk factor for DKD.