Exploring the pathophysiological link between obesity and kidney stone formation: cost-effective dietary and...

Obesity has become a major global health concern and has been frequently associated with numerous pathological conditions, one of which is kidney stones, also known as nephrolithiasis. Both these conditions present a significant burden on healthcare systems, and their coexistence amplifies the challenges for both the patients as well as the healthcare systems. To develop effective management strategies, it is crucial to understand the pathophysiological mechanisms connecting these two conditions.

This study aims to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms linking obesity and kidney stone formation, along with presenting cost-effective strategies, including dietary and lifestyle modifications, which can help decrease the incidence of obesity-related kidney stone formation.

This study is performed by reviewing reporting items, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, using electronic databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The search term for this purpose was "Obesity AND Kidney Stones," and articles were reviewed from 2002 to 2024.

The study displays that obesity increases the risk of kidney stone formation through multiple pathways. Increased uric acid excretion, increased calcium levels, insulin resistance, and a sedentary way of living contribute to the pathophysiology of kidney stones. The study also analyzes the economic burden of these diseases and explores cost-effective strategies for their management.

The risk of kidney stones in obese people can be reduced by using individualized strategies. Improving daily physical activity levels and healthy diet intake has proved to be increasingly important in the prevention of obesity-related kidney stones.