Association of accelerometer-measured physical activity with kidney function in a Japanese population: the DOSANCO Health Study

BACKGROUND: Sedentary behavior and decreased physical activity are associated with reduced kidney function, yet most evidence is based on self-reported physical activity. This study investigated the association between accelerometer-based physical activity level and kidney function in a general Japanese population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 440 community-dwelling Japanese participants, aged 35–79 years. Time (min/d) was assessed for the following types of physical activity: sedentary behavior, light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). Kidney function was assessed using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). A linear regression model was employed to calculate the β coefficient of eGFR for a 60-min/d increase in sedentary behavior and LPA and a 10-min/d increase in MVPA. A logistic regression model was used to calculate the odds ratio for low eGFR (< 60 versus ≥60 mL/min/1.73m(2)) for a 60-min/d or 10-min/d increase in each physical activity type. RESULTS: MVPA time and eGFR were positively associated in both men and women, after adjusting for age, body mass index, and other clinical characteristics (Men: β, 0.91; P = 0.021; Women: β, 0.70; P = 0.034). In women, sedentary behavior and eGFR were inversely associated after adjusting for the same factors (β, − 1.06; P = 0.048). The odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for low eGFR associated with a 60-min increase in sedentary behavior was 1.65 (1.07–2.55) after adjusting for the same factors in women. CONCLUSION: Longer sedentary behavior and shorter MVPA time were associated with lower kidney function in the Japanese population.