New research is showing the value of increasing bone mineral parameters in people with chronic kidney issues, with the new study suggesting this may actually lower mortality. Kidneys filter the blood of wastes and toxins, allowing them to be expelled through urine.

Kidney problems affect 10% to 13% of the adult population. Those with the condition are at a higher risk of cardiovascular complications and premature death. Researchers looked at 966 patients with stage 4 and 5 CKD who did not receive dialysis. These patients had serum values associated with the least risk for all-cause mortality were 3.8 mg/dL for phosphate, 70 pg/mL for iPTH, and 9.5 mg/dL for calcium.

Researchers said these specific values indicated lower risk ranges of 2.8-5.0 mg/dL for phosphate, 38-112 pg/mL for iPTH, and 10.5 mg/dL or less for calcium.

•  Over a period of 29 months, 181 patients (19%) with stages 4 to 5 NDD-CKD died. 

   

• Low and high phosphate and iPTH levels were associated with increased risk for mortality.

   

• Only high calcium was associated with greater death risk.  

   

• High calcium levels have been linked to conditions such as vascular calcification, adynamic bone disease and immobility.  

   

• Phosphate might increase fibroblast growth leading to vascular calcification,
  atherosclerosis, and myocardial hypertrophy.  

   

For more info on the issues which may accompany kidney problems on your healthy kidney journey, be sure to check out the Healthy Kidney Inc. official YouTube channel, updated regularly with the topics that matter most to you!