Hydrocarbon water-pollution related to chronic kidney disease in Tierra Blanca, a perfect storm

Environ Int. 2018 Dec;121(Pt 2):1204-1209. doi: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.10.036. Epub 2018 Oct 23.

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects the kidneys, and in severe cases is considered as end-stage renal disease which can only be treated by dialysis and transplantation. Tierra Blanca city has a higher CKD rate compared to other Mexican cities, but its principal cause has not been found yet. Main factors related to CKD are carbonated beverage consumption, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, heat stress, dehydration, and intoxication by pesticides, heavy metals, and/or hydrocarbons. The aim of this work was to evaluate hydrocarbon pollution in Tierra Blanca domestic fresh-water related to CKD and to integrate this information with other main factors in order to suggest precautionary actions taking account of key actors. We found hydrocarbons in the water wells of the city and the presence of other risk factors, which creates a perfect storm for CKD. Additionally, key actors were identified in order to follow precautionary principles related to CKD cases in Tierra Blanca.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease; Hydrocarbon pollution; Risk factors of CKD; Tierra Blanca, precautionary principle.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Hydrocarbons / analysis
  • Hydrocarbons / toxicity*
  • Kidney / drug effects*
  • Mexico
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / chemically induced*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / analysis
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical / toxicity*
  • Water Pollution

Substances

  • Hydrocarbons
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical