The secondary outcome, the renal outcome, was the first occurrence of a decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥50% or end-stage renal disease needing chronic dialysis.
Changes in the eGFR were confirmed at least 4 weeks after treatment of potentially reversible factors.
The timing of initiation of chronic dialysis was determined in accordance with the regulations of the National Health Insurance Administration of Taiwan, which suggest beginning dialysis at an eGFR level