Association between job characteristics and kidney function among men: a cross-sectional analysis of the Rafsanjan...

Although well-established risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been extensively studied, the association between job characteristics and kidney health is an emerging area of interest.

This study aimed to investigate the association between job type and kidney function in men participating in the Rafsanjan Cohort Study (RCS).

This cross-sectional analysis included 4,457 male participants from the RCS as part of a prospective epidemiological research study in IrAN (PERSIAN). RCS was started in 2015 in Rafsanjan, southeast Iran. Kidney function was assessed using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and serum creatinine (Cr) levels. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to examine the association between job type (categorized by skill level and groups) and kidney function parameters, with adjustment for confounders.

Men in higher skill categories (3 and 4) exhibited significantly increased odds of the G2 category of eGFR (OR: 2.32 and 1.63, respectively) and elevated Cr (OR: 2.53 and 1.80, respectively) compared to those in the unskilled category (Skill Level 1), even after adjustment. These associations persisted after excluding participants with diabetes and hypertension. Several occupational groups, including Professionals, Managers, Technicians, and Associate Professionals, as well as Plant and Machine Operators, showed higher odds of reductions in eGFR and elevated Cr. In contrast, Elementary occupations were associated with higher eGFR levels. Regarding employment status, retired participants had decreased odds of elevated BUN. An interaction analysis revealed that high-skill workers (Skill Level 3) with severe physical activity had significantly higher odds of elevated Cr (OR: 4.77) and reduced eGFR (OR:5.36).

This study highlights the significant associations between job characteristics and kidney function parameters among males, with high-skill occupations and specific occupational groups showing increased odds, independent of traditional CKD risk factors. A synergistic effect was observed between high-skill jobs and high physical activity. Future longitudinal studies are essential to verify these associations and elucidate underlying mechanisms.