Long-term exposure to NO2 and PM2.5 and the occurrence of chronic kidney disease among patients with type 2 diabetes in Taiwan

Abstract

Background: Individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D) frequently exhibit chronic kidney disease (CKD) which may be caused by environmental hazards such as exposure to air pollutants. However, limited research has explored the effects of prolonged exposure to air pollutants on CKD development in this population. This study examines the relationship between long-term exposure to air pollutants and CKD incidence in a longitudinal cohort of individuals with type 2 diabetes in Taiwan Methods: Between 2003 and 2005, we recruited 1316 T2D patients (693 females [52.66 %]; mean age 56.16 ± 8.97 years). Patients were followed until December 31, 2012, with at least two clinical visits. Baseline demographics, medical history, and biomarker levels were collected. The development of CKD was determined by eGFR level 33.44 μg/m3) and NO2 levels above the fourth quartile (>22.55 ppb) were found to have an increased risk of CKD occurrence compared to lower exposure levels. Conclusions: This longitudinal study highlights the increased risk of CKD in individuals with type 2 diabetes due to prolonged exposure to NO2 and PM2.5, emphasizing the need for tailored air quality management strategies for this high-risk population.

Keywords

• Air pollution
• Chronic kidney disease
• EGFR
• NO2
• Particulate matter
• Renal function