India, Oct. 23 -- With AQI shooting sky-high and Diwali fast approaching, air pollution is once again the subject of many conversations. While it is widely recognised for its impact on respiratory and cardiovascular health, nephrologist Dr Umesh Gupta told HT Lifestyle that the effects can reach the kidneys as well.

"Emerging research suggests that prolonged exposure to polluted air could contribute to an increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a condition characterised by the gradual loss of kidney function," stated the physician.

While air pollution is not the sole cause of CKD, it may be an important environmental risk factor that warrants greater attention. Dr Gupta went on to explain how air pollution affects the kidneys, w...