Chronic kidney disease: Low birth weight and the global burden of kidney disease

Carolyn L Abitbol1, Marva Moxey-Mims2

  • 1Division of Pediatric Nephrology, Department of Pediatrics, Holtz Children's Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, PO Box 016960 (M-714), Miami, Florida 33101, USA.

Nature Reviews. Nephrology
|February 23, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Low birth weight (LBW) is linked to a significantly higher risk of developing end-stage renal disease later in life. This association persists even when accounting for shared family influences, highlighting a critical developmental impact.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Low birth weight (LBW) and intrauterine growth restriction are significant global health issues.
  • These conditions are recognized contributors to the burden of non-communicable diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the long-term association between LBW and the risk of developing end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
  • To determine if familial factors confound the relationship between LBW and ESRD.

Main Methods:

  • A Norwegian registry-based cohort study was utilized.
  • The study analyzed data to assess the risk of ESRD in individuals with LBW.

Main Results:

  • LBW was associated with a 40% increased risk of developing ESRD by age 40.
  • This increased risk was independent of familial factors, suggesting a direct biological link.

Conclusions:

  • LBW is a significant risk factor for developing ESRD in early adulthood.
  • The findings underscore the importance of monitoring kidney health in individuals with a history of LBW.

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