Metabolic Syndrome as a Risk Factor for Chronic Kidney Disease

Recent evidence suggests that MetS significantly increases individuals’ risk of developing CKD. Among individuals with CKD, the MetS incidence can reach 70%. Epidemiological studies have reported an independent and positive association between MetS and CKD; accordingly, patients with MetS have up to a 2.6-fold greater risk of CKD than individuals without MetS. On the other hand, the presence of microalbuminuria is also more frequent among patients with MetS. This chapter aims to explore the association between MetS and precursor factors of kidney disease, including prevalence, pathophysiology, and clinical and laboratory diagnosis, including progression monitoring. The factors contributing to kidney injury onset in MetS patients may include oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, altered renal hemodynamics, excessive renal sodium reabsorption, activation of the RAAS and sympathetic nervous system, an atherogenic lipid profile, and even physical compression of the kidneys by adipose tissue. In conclusion, measures for broadly addressing the impact of CKD and MetS may not be understood as separate approaches but may be complementary. The need to ensure effective primary prevention based on nutritional and lifestyle approaches is fundamental.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease, Inflammation, Metabolic syndrome, Microalbuminuria, Renin-angiotensin system.