Original article / research
Impact of Diet and Occupation on Kidney Stone Formation: A Cross-sectional Study
OC24-OC28
Correspondence
Dr. Priyadarshini Shanmugam,
Rajiv Gandhi Salai (OMR), Kelambakkam-603103, Tamil Nadu, India.
E-mail: priyadarshini0018@gmail.com
Introduction: Nephrolithiasis is a growing global health concern influenced by genetic, dietary and lifestyle factors. Excessive meat intake, genetic predisposition and occupational conditions contribute significantly to stone formation and recurrence. However, few studies in India have examined their combined impact.
Aim: To evaluate the role of dietary patterns and occupational activity in renal stone formation.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted Department of Microbiology at Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, India, from October 2023 to February 2025. A total of 90 patients with renal stones, including both first-time stone formers (n=46) and recurrent cases (n=44), were enrolled. A structured questionnaire was used to gather dietary information. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was performed on 50 stone samples to determine their mineral composition. To determine associations among variables, Pearson’s Chi-square test was performed and results with p<0.05 were deemed statistically significant.
Results: Of the 90 patients included, 56% were males and the majority were aged 31-45 years. Recurrent stone formers exhibited significantly higher meat consumption (χ²=11.9, p≤0.05) and a stronger family history of renal calculi (χ²=6.62, p≤0.01). Sedentary occupations were more prevalent among first-time stone formers, whereas physically demanding jobs were more common among recurrent cases (χ²=12.64, p≤0.001).
Conclusion: The findings highlight that dietary habits and both sedentary and physically demanding occupations play crucial roles in renal stone occurrence.