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Urbanization and Altitude Are Associated with Low Kidney Function in Peru
Rodrigo M Carrillo-Larco1,2, J Jaime Miranda2,3, Robert H Gilman2,4,5
11 Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
High Altitude Medicine & Biology
|May 8, 2019
Summary
Higher altitude and urbanization negatively impact kidney function in Peru. Rural environments may offer some protection against high-altitude effects on kidney health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Nephrology
- Global Health
Background:
- Kidney health research is crucial in low- and middle-income countries facing high altitude and urbanization.
- Understanding environmental impacts on kidney function is essential for public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between urbanization levels and kidney function.
- To examine the relationship between high altitude, hemoglobin levels, and kidney function.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of population-based studies in five Peruvian sites with varying altitudes and urbanization.
- Measured estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) as the primary outcome.
- Assessed urbanization, altitude, and hemoglobin as key exposures.
Main Results:
- Urbanization and higher altitude were associated with worse kidney function (lower eGFR) across most sites.
- A negative correlation was observed between altitude and eGFR in urban settings.
- A trend suggested a negative association between hemoglobin and eGFR at high altitudes.
Conclusions:
- Increased urbanization and altitude, with some exceptions, correlate with diminished kidney function.
- Rural environments might mitigate some negative kidney health impacts of high altitude.
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