A new scientific study has revealed a concerning connection between air pollution and serious kidney diseases.
Researchers found that prolonged exposure to polluted air may increase the risk of kidney failure, hospital admissions, and fatal kidney-related conditions.
The research was carried out in São Paulo, Brazil, between 2011 and 2021.
The study analyzed health data from approximately 37,000 individuals to examine the impact of air pollution on kidney health.
Researchers observed a direct link between poor air quality and higher rates of chronic kidney disease, sudden kidney failure, and kidney-related hospitalizations.
Higher risk among older adults
According to the findings, people aged between 19 and 50 experienced a noticeable increase in kidney disease risk linked to pollution exposure.
However, the danger was significantly higher among individuals aged 51 to 75, where the risk was found to be nearly 2.5 times greater.
The study also showed that hospitalization risks appeared to be higher in men compared to women.
Research professor Lucia Andrade explained that fine particulate matter from polluted air can enter the bloodstream and accumulate in kidney tissues.
The immune system then reacts to these particles as foreign substances, triggering inflammation, fibrosis, and premature aging of kidney cells.
Experts noted that kidney disease often develops silently, with many patients remaining unaware until severe damage has already occurred.
Pollution levels exceeded WHO limits
Researchers reported that average pollution levels during the study period were nearly three times higher than limits recommended by the World Health Organization.
However, experts emphasized that even lower pollution levels may still increase the risk of kidney disease.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Iara da Silva, said the findings demonstrate that kidney-related hospitalizations can occur even within air quality levels considered acceptable by international standards.
She stressed the need for stricter environmental and public health policies aimed at reducing air pollution exposure.
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