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Environmental and Occupational Exposures in Kidney Disease
Madeleine K Scammell1, Caryn M Sennett1, Zoe E Petropoulos1
1Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
Seminars in Nephrology
|May 6, 2019
Summary
Environmental hazards like heavy metals and pesticides contribute to over 8 million deaths annually, causing kidney dysfunction. This review examines environmental exposures linked to kidney disease in humans and animals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental health
- Nephrology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Noncommunicable environmental hazards cause over 8 million deaths yearly.
- Physical or chemical agents can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed, impacting all organ systems, notably the kidney.
- Kidney dysfunction and chronic kidney disease are linked to environmental exposures such as heavy metals, pesticides, and infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review environmental exposures associated with kidney dysfunction.
- To focus on environmental factors implicated in causing chronic kidney disease in animals and humans.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on environmental exposures and kidney disease.
- Analysis of mechanisms of kidney damage from environmental toxins.
- Examination of factors modulating exposure effects, including timing, duration, and genetic susceptibility.
Main Results:
- Environmental hazards are a significant cause of kidney dysfunction and chronic kidney disease.
- Specific agents like heavy metals and pesticides are identified as key contributors.
- The impact of exposure is influenced by individual susceptibility and exposure conditions.
Conclusions:
- Environmental exposures represent a critical, yet often overlooked, factor in kidney disease.
- Further research is needed to understand and mitigate the renal effects of environmental toxins.
- Public health strategies should address environmental hazards to prevent kidney disease.
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