Climate Change in the Tropics: Rising Temperatures and Kidney Health
摘要
Climate change has contributed to the increase in global temperature and the frequency and intensity of heat waves. Due to their role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, the kidneys are essential in protecting against climate-related morbidities, but at the same time, they are among the organs most affected by high temperatures that favor the occurrence of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. While acute dehydration increases the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic exposure to a state of water deficit is related to both kidney stones and the increase in cases and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, climate change should be a special concern for professionals working in nephrology, especially in the most vulnerable regions, such as populations living in tropical areas with deficient health infrastructure, as they will continue to suffer the greatest consequences. In this chapter, we will address the effects of climate change, especially related to rising temperatures and heat waves, in the current context and future projections related to AKI, CKD, and kidney stones.