Greenness and kidney? A review of epidemiological studies on the association between green space and kidney disease

• Published in: Kidney research and clinical practice Vol. 43; no. 1; pp. 63 - 70
• Main Authors: Park, Jiwoo, Yun, Hyewon, Lee, Whanhee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) The Korean Society of Nephrology 01.01.2024; 대한신장학회
• Subjects: acute kidney injury; chronic kidney disease; end-stage kidney disease; green space; Review; 내과학; Green space; End-stage kidney disease; Chronic kidney disease; Acute kidney injury
• ISSN: 2211-9132; 2211-9140
• DOI: 10.23876/j.krcp.23.110

Recent accumulating epidemiological evidence underlines the important role of environmental exposures on kidney diseases. Among environmental exposures, this study addresses "Green space," which has been recognized as one of the major environmental exposures at the population level. We review a total of seven epidemiological studies currently published on greenness and kidney disease. We also discuss knowledge gaps in the epidemiological evidence in relation to study design, greenness exposure index, emerging kidney outcomes, and inequalities. With an increase in public attention regarding environmental risks and climate change, an improved understanding of the beneficial effects of green space can play an important role in promoting kidney health.