Obesity as a Risk Factor for the Development and Progression of Chronic Kidney Disease: A Systematic Review

Objectives: To conduct a systematic review of existing literature to assess the relationship between obesity and CKD. Methods: A detailed computerized search of relevant databases was conducted to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria. The search encompassed PubMed, SCOPUS, Science Direct, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science to find pertinent research. Results: Our analysis included seven studies with a total of 21,191 obese patients and males comprised less than half of the participants, totaling 6675 (31.5%). The prevalence of CKD among obese individuals ranged from 7% to 48.9%. The results of this systematic review indicate a clear association between obesity and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Across multiple studies, obesity, particularly abdominal obesity, was found to significantly increase the risk of developing and progressing CKD, with higher body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) correlating with greater renal dysfunction. Key mechanisms involved include renal fat deposition, increased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) decline, and metabolic disturbances. Conclusion: This systematic review provides strong evidence that obesity is a significant risk factor for the development and progression of chronic kidney disease. The reviewed studies highlight the complex interplay between obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and renal impairment, underscoring the need for early identification and management of obesity in patients at risk for CKD.