Smoking Not Only Damages Your Lungs, But May Also Cause Your Kidneys To Fail Prematurely?
Jun 11, 2024
Smoking is a modifiable risk factor for a variety of adverse events. However, little is known about the relationship between smoking and the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) in the general population. On December 7, 2023, a study was published in AJKD to explore the relationship between smoking and the risk of AKI.

method
Researchers followed 14,571 participants [mean age 55 (6) years, 55% female, 25% black] from Visit 1 (1987-1989) of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study, until December 31, 2019. Participants' smoking parameters (status, duration, pack-years, intensity, and years since quitting) were collected. The primary outcome was hospitalization for AKI, and results were analyzed using multivariable Cox regression models.

result
During a median follow-up period of 26.3 years, 2984 participants were hospitalized for AKI. Research shows:
• After adjusting for potential confounders, current and former smokers had a significantly higher risk of AKI than never smokers [hazard ratio (HR) 2.22 (95% CI: 2.02-2.45) and 1.12 (1.02-1.23), respectively ].
• There is always a dose-response relationship between smoking duration, pack-years of smoking, smoking intensity, and AKI [eg, the dose-response relationship per 10 years of smoking is 1.19 (1.16-1.22)].
• When the number of years since smoking cessation is considered as a time-varying exposure, the risk of AKI associated with smoking begins to decrease after 10 years compared with current smokers and is similar to never smokers at 30 years [≥30 Year HR, 1.07 (0.97-1.20) vs never smokers].

in conclusion
In a community-based cohort, all smoking parameters were strongly associated with the risk of developing AKI. Smoking cessation is associated with reduced risk of AKI, although excess risk persists up to 30 years. This study supports the importance of preventing smoking initiation and promoting smoking cessation in reducing the risk of AKI.
How Does Cistanche Treat Kidney Disease?
Cistanche is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including kidney disease. It is derived from the dried stems of Cistanche deserticola, a plant native to the deserts of China and Mongolia. The main active components of cistanche are phenylethanoid glycosides, echinacoside, and acteoside, which have been found to have beneficial effects on kidney health.
Kidney disease, also known as renal disease, refers to a condition in which the kidneys are not functioning properly. This can result in a buildup of waste products and toxins in the body, leading to various symptoms and complications. Cistanche may help treat kidney disease ase through several mechanisms.
Firstly, cistanche has been found to have diuretic properties, meaning it can increase urine production and help eliminate waste products from the body. This can help relieve the burden on the kidneys and prevent the buildup of toxins. By promoting diuresis, cistanche may also help Reduce high blood pressure, a common complication of kidney disease.
Moreover, cistanche has been shown to have antioxidant effects. Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's antioxidant defenses, plays a key role in the progression of kidney disease. ies help neutralize free radicals and reduce Oxidative stress, thereby protecting the kidneys from damage. The phenylethanoid glycosides found in cistanche have been particularly effective in scavenging free radicals and inhibiting lipid peroxidation.
Additionally, cistanche has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is another key factor in the development and progression of kidney disease. Cistanche's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibit the activation of inflammation mandatory pathways, thus alleviating inflammation in the kidneys.
Furthermore, cistanche has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects. In kidney disease, the immune system can be dysregulated, leading to excessive inflammation and tissue damage. Cistanche helps regulate the immune response by modulating the production and activity of immune cells, such as T cells and macrophages. This immune regulation helps reduce inflammation and prevent further damage to the kidneys.
Moreover, cistanche has been found to improve renal function by promoting the regeneration of renal tubes with cells. Renal tubular epithelial cells play a crucial role in the filtration and reabsorption of waste products and electrolytes. In kidney disease, these cells can be damaged, leading to damaged renal function. Cistanche's ability to promote the regeneration of these cells helps restore proper renal function and improve overall kidney health.

In addition to these direct effects on the kidneys, cistanche has been found to have beneficial effects on other organs and systems in the body. This holistic approach to health is particularly important in kidney disease, as the condition often affects multiple organs and systems. che has been shown to have protective effects on the liver, heart, and blood vessels, which are commonly affected by kidney disease. By promoting the health of these organs, cistanche helps improve overall kidney function and prevent further complications.
In conclusion, cistanche is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine used for centuries to treat kidney disease. Its active components have diuretic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative effects, which help improve renal function and protect the kidneys from further damage. , cistanche has beneficial effects on other organs and systems, making it a holistic approach to treating kidney disease.






