Environmental Pollution and Its Impact on Kidney Health: A Contemporary Review of Existing Evidence

Kidney diseases pose a growing public health concern due to their rising prevalence, associated cardiovascular risks, and substantial economic burden on the health care system worldwide. This article discusses the intricate connection between environmental pollution and kidney diseases, stressing the global impact of accelerated industrialization and urbanization. Despite traditional risk factors like diabetes and hypertension accounting for some cases, the rising prevalence of various kidney diseases, specifically chronic kidney disease (CKD), suggests additional, previously overlooked contributors. The kidney, with its filtration functions, is particularly susceptible to the toxic e"ects of environmental pollutants, making longterm exposure a significant risk factor for kidney diseases. Particulate matter (PM) with a mean aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 #m (PM2.5) has been linked to an increased risk of acute and CKDs, glomerular diseases, urological cancers, a more accelerated decline in kidney function, and high mortality. Additionally, exposure to industrial and agricultural pollutants, biogenic toxins, and second-hand smoke is associated with an increased risk of kidney disease. These various risk factors contribute to the global burden of kidney diseases, emphasizing the need for comprehensive understanding and e"ective strategies to mitigate adverse environmental influences on kidney health. The article underscores the need for longitudinal studies to establish causation, detailed investigations into pollutant-specific mechanisms, and exploration of gene–environment interactions. By fostering awareness and implementing successful pollution control strategies, the public health threat posed by environmental pollutants, specifically in the context of kidney diseases, might be mitigated.

Cite this article as: Meena P, Gaur L, Rani K, Anandh U. Environmental pollution and its impact on kidney health: a contemporary review of existing evidence. Turk J Nephrol. 2025;34(1):3-11.