Low Birth Weight shows significant link to Chronic Kidney Disease
For some time, researchers have been concerned with the correlation between low birth weight and the development of chronic disease later in life. It has been suggested that nutritional and physiological effects while in the womb may increase susceptibility to a number of disorders later in life such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. In particular, there has been considerable interest in the hypothesis that low birth weight may be a marker of chronic kidney disease.
Researchers at The George Institute recently conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies to investigate this relationship. Combined data from 18 studies representing 2.2 million individuals reveal that individuals with low birth weight have an approximately 70% greater risk of developing chronic kidney disease in later life.
"Available data suggests that chronic kidney disease affects 10% - 15% of adult populations. Our analysis suggests that people who were born with low birth weight (usually defined as less than 2.5 kg) may be vulnerable to accelerated loss of kidney function. However we also know that early detection and management of chronic kidney disease and its risk factors are effective. People who were small at birth are best advised to avoid obesity that could lead to diabetes, maintain regular physical activity, avoid medications that could be toxic for the kidneys and have blood, urine and blood pressure checked periodically to identify any abnormalities early," said lead author Sarah White.
Researchers conclude however that there is scope for future prospective studies with accurate assessment of birth weight and kidney function and consideration of important confounders, including maternal and socioeconomic factors.
Click here to view the article, published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases