Prevalence, correlates, and treatment behaviors for urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms at the population level in Poland

The prevalence of urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms differs by region because of geographical, climatic, dietary, genetic, and lifestyle factors. In addition, reliable data for Central and Eastern Europe are lacking. Therefore, we analyzed the prevalence, correlates, and treatment behaviors for these conditions in a representative sample of 10,029 adult Poles. We used an Internet interview format and based our sample on the latest population census data. The lifetime prevalence of urolithiasis was 12.85% (n = 1289), and renal colic-like pain symptoms during lifetime were reported to be 43.05% (n = 4317). Sociodemographic factors such as age, place of residence, education, marital and employment status, and workplace-related circumstances (particularly exposure to high temperatures) were associated with urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms; no sex differences were observed. Over 20 conditions correlated with high prevalence of urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms. Lifestyle habits also influenced prevalence, with salting food increasing the risk of urolithiasis, and smoking and alcohol consumption being linked to renal colic-like pain symptoms. Encouragingly, most participants with urolithiasis and renal colic-like pain symptoms sought and received treatment. These findings, consistent with studies worldwide, provide valuable guidance for developing and implementing effective health improvement programs targeting urolithiasis in Poland.