Microalbuminuria Screening in Non-Diabetic, Non-Hypertensive Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Microalbuminuria, defined as an albumin excretion rate (AER) of 30–300 mg/24 hours, is a critical early biomarker for glomerular damage and generalized endothelial dysfunction. This study investigates the prevalence of microalbuminuria in individuals without diabetes or hypertension to identify sub-clinical markers of cardiovascular and renal risk. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 95 healthy volunteers categorized by age (25–40 and 40–65 years) and lifestyle habits (smoking and alcohol consumption). Urinary albumin was measured via Nycocard U-Albumin assay, and serum lipid profiles were analyzed using enzymatic methods. Results: Microalbuminuria levels were significantly higher in the 40–65 age group ($128 \pm 9.9$ mg/24h) compared to the 25–40 age group ($79 \pm 9.2$ mg/24h). The combination of smoking and alcohol consumption synergistically increased albumin excretion and total cholesterol while lowering high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels. Conclusions: In non-diabetic and non-hypertensive populations, advancing age and tobacco/alcohol use are major drivers of microalbuminuria. Early screening provides a critical window for clinical intervention to prevent end-stage renal disease and cardiovascular events.