Being Obese Could Lead To Kidney Stone Formation

According to findings of a recent study researchers say obesity and weight gain may increase the risk of kidney stone formation.Researchers believe larger body size causes increased urination of calcium and uric acid, resulting in a higher risk for calcium-containing kidney stones.

The association between the formation of kidney stones and weight, weight gain, body mass index, and waist circumference was studied and results showed men who weighed more than 220 pounds had a 44-percent increased risk for the development of kidney stones compared to men who weighed 150 pounds. Younger women (ages 27 to 44) who weighed more than 220 pounds were found to have a 92-percent increased risk of kidney stones, while older women (ages 34 to 59) had an 89-percent increased risk.

When compared to men who stayed the same weight, men who gained more than 35 pounds since age 21 increased their risk by 39 percent. Older women with similar weight gain had a 70-percent increase, and younger women with similar weight gain had an 82-percent increased risk of forming kidney stones. Higher BMI and waist sizes were also associated with an increased risk for kidney stones.

In conclusion researchers say the increased risk may be higher in women than in men thus they suggest weight control as an effective measure to prevent kidney stone formation.