An Epidemiological Survey on Kidney Stones and Related Risk Factors in the Iranian Community

Increasing number of patients with kidney stones is a major worldwide concern that needs more attention for recognizing the disease in order to set up suitable prevention systems. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence and related risk factors of kidney stones in our local area (Isfahan, Iran). In 2011, we celebrated World Kidney Day (WKD) with several training programs for informing people about kidney diseases. A questionnaire containing demographic data, past medical history, and familial and self-history of kidney disease was fulfilled by each individual who participated in WKD. Blood pressure and body mass index (BMI) were also measured using standard methods. Statistical analysis with SPSS-20 software was done. 556 participants with a mean age of 44.69±15.32 were included in the study, of which 107 cases (19.2%) with a mean age of 50.24±12.33 had a kidney stone, and 449 cases (80.8%) with a mean age of 44.69±15.32 had no history of kidney stone. There were no significant differences between those with and without kidney stones regarding sex (P=0.176), type of daily work (P=0.91), diabetes mellitus (P=0.64), and place of living (urban versus rural) (P=0.92) and BMI (P=0.26). However, there were differences between groups regarding age (P˂0.001), Hypertension (HTN) (P=001), Cardiovascular disease (CVD) (P=0.02), and familial history of kidney stone (P˂0.001). Out of 107 patients with kidney stones, the mean number of urinary excretion of stones was 2.56±2.98. We found a greater prevalence of kidney stones in our local area compared with data from other research studies. Despite some previous studies, comparison of people with and without kidney stones did not reveal differences in the prevalence of DM, type of daily work (low activity versus high activity), and obesity but differences in the field of HTN and CVD were seen.