Global Warming Increases Kidney Stones Risk »
If global warming has its way, the incidence of kidney stones may begin to escalate, according to a new study. Kidney stone incidence is actually higher in warmer parts of the US, especially in the southeast, presumably due to higher rates of dehydration. This phenomenon can be observed in people who move from mild to hot climates, as seen in military deployments to the Middle East. Why does this occur? Kidney stones form from minerals dissolved in urine. When dehydration occurs, lower urine volume leads to greater concentrations of these minerals and increases the risk of stone formation. Full story.