Occupational kidney stones.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Kidney stones are a common and preventable disorder. Certain occupations may increase risk for stone disease which will be discussed in this review. Few observational studies have examined this association.

RECENT FINDINGS

Some occupations prevent individuals from drinking enough fluids to maintain a dilute urine or to void when they need to. People may have poor access to fluids or to bathroom facilities. These issues pose a risk for stone disease and are exacerbated by those who work in warmer climates. Individuals who do more activity while working, especially outdoors, perspire more, leading to more concentrated urine. In more sedentary jobs, individuals are at a higher risk of metabolic syndrome and therefore have a higher risk for stones. Astronauts, who work in environments without gravity, mobilize calcium from bone, leading to a higher risk of stone disease.

SUMMARY

Proper fluid intake, more access to restrooms and increased use of potassium citrate may be the best options for those who encounter greater risk for stones because of their occupation.