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UQ News

UQ News

Can Common Pesticides Affect Kidney Health?

Can Common Pesticides Affect Kidney Health?

Are pesticides putting you at greater risk for kidney disease? Discover what researchers at the University of Queensland learned about pesticides and CKD.


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Throughout the years, researchers have learned certain lifestyle factors and health conditions may lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). New research is suggesting one commonly available pesticide may also be associated with an increased risk for CKD.* Learn more about what researchers at the University of Queensland found regarding this pesticide. 

What Researchers Knew

Age, hypertension, and diabetes are well-known risk factors for diabetes; however, CKD diagnoses were rising without known risk factors in low to middle-income regions such as India, Sri Lanka, and Mesoamerica. 

“Initially, it was suspected the condition was associated with agricultural workplaces through exposure to heat stress, dehydration, pesticide spraying, heavy metals, and agrochemicals,” stated Dr. Nicholas Osborne, School of Public Health Associate Professor. 

What Researchers Learned

Using data from the USA National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), researchers at the University of Queensland discovered links between pesticide exposure and the risk of kidney dysfunction in 41,847 individuals. The study found people exposed to higher amounts of the insecticide Malathion, known as Maldison in Australia, had a 25% higher risk of kidney dysfunction. 

According to Dr. Osborne, this study was the first of its kind to link evidence between pesticides and CKD; however, the cause of CKD is still unknown. The correlation between Maldison and CKD does not necessarily mean Maldison is causing CKD. Future research will help to determine the cause of CKD in these areas. 

What We Can Do

While researchers continue to collect data and investigate pesticides, it may be beneficial for individuals to limit exposure to pesticides and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) if working in areas near them. 

*Pesticide linked to chronic kidney disease. (2021, October 13). UQ News. Retrieved October 30, 2021, from https://www.uq.edu.au/news/article/2021/10/pesticide-linked-chronic-kidney-disease 

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