Open AccessEnvironmental Exposures and Kidney Disease
Author(s) -
Abhijit V. Kshirsagar,
Evan Zeitler,
Anne M. Weaver,
Nora Franceschini,
Lawrence S. Engel
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
kidney360
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2641-7650
DOI - 10.34067/kid.0007962021
Subject(s) - pollutant , environmental science , observational study , environmental health , disease , air pollutants , particulates , environmental planning , air pollution , medicine , ecology , biology , pathology
Accumulating evidence underscores the large role played by the environment in the health of communities and individuals. We review the currently known contribution of environmental exposures and pollutants on kidney disease and its associated morbidity. We review air pollutants, such as particulate matter; water pollutants, such as trace elements, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, and pesticides; and extreme weather events and natural disasters. We also discuss gaps in the evidence that presently relies heavily on observational studies and animal models, and propose using recently developed analytic methods to help bridge the gaps. With the expected increase in the intensity and frequency of many environmental exposures in the decades to come, an improved understanding of their potential effect on kidney disease is crucial to mitigate potential morbidity and mortality.