Obesity Care Barriers in Kidney Transplant Candidates and Recipients: Perspectives from a Survey of Transplant Experts.

INTRODUCTION

Within the kidney transplant community, there is growing recognition of the importance of treating obesity to improve access to and outcomes of kidney transplant. We sought to assess kidney transplant professionals' attitudes and practices regarding obesity management.

METHODS

The American Society of Transplantation Kidney Pancreas Community of Practice Obesity Workgroup developed and administered a web-based survey to a broad audience of healthcare professionals working with potential kidney transplant candidates and recipients.

RESULTS

With 275 respondents from 113 kidney transplant programs representing >70% of US kidney transplant volume, we found that only 68% of kidney transplant programs with a weight management program reported access to an obesity medicine specialist. Among programs that prescribe anti-obesity medications, the majority prescribe nutrient-stimulated hormones, while few utilize other agents. Most kidney transplant professionals prefer that obesity medicine physicians lead obesity management in their patients; however, 74% reported that access to weight management programs was extremely or somewhat difficult, with 64% citing long wait times for an appointment as the main barrier to care.

CONCLUSIONS

Kidney transplant professionals believe that obesity medicine physicians are best suited to lead obesity treatment for their patients, though access to this care appears to be a major barrier.