The relationship between microalbuminuria, overweight and obesity

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes, hypertension and obesity are associated with endothelial dysfunction. The first sign of endothelial dysfunction is microalbuminuria. Objectives: The aim of this study was to measure urine albumin to creatinine ratio in obese patients without diabetes and with normal blood pressure. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 200 adults were chosen with body mass index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 . Anthropometry measurements [BMI and waist to hip ratio (WHR)] and biochemical tests were performed. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: Among 200 obese people, microalbuminuria was seen in 22 individuals (11%). The prevalence of microalbuminuria was positively increased with increasing of BMI (P= 0.04). Moreover, microalbuminuria was significantly higher in people with WHR >1 (P=0.02). Conclusion: Through this study, we detected the association of microalbuminuria with BMI and WHR. Therefore, efforts must be conducted to reduce obesity through lifestyle changes and regular exercise.

Keywords

• obesity
• albuminuria
• body mass index
• waist to hip ratio
• endothelial dysfunction
• obesity-related glomerulopathy
• chronic kidney disease
• focal segmental glomerulosclerosis