Renal stone prevalence and risk factors in Jeddah and Riyadh

INTRODUCTION: Nephrolithiasis is a common problem worldwide, especially in hot areas like Saudi Arabia. This retrospective study investigated the current prevalence and risk factors of renal stones in Jeddah and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A non-interventional cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2018 to June 2019 at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This study included 1031 participants (age ≥18 years) from Jeddah (n = 652, 63.30%) and Riyadh (n = 379, 36.80%). Of them, 169 (16.40%) had renal stones while 862 (83.60%) had no renal stones. All participants filled out a questionnaire distributed via social media, which contained questions regarding eating and drinking habits. RESULTS: Significant differences were found between the groups regarding frequencies of intake of black tea and orange/lemon juice. The number of patients who consumed cow meat was significantly higher among those without renal stones than among those with renal stones. Significant high risk for renal stones was found in those who consumed energy drink >1 can/day, black tea >1 cup/day, and orange/lemon juice >1 glass/day. CONCLUSION: This study revealed that some eating habits play a major role in the development of urinary stones in the Saudi population. Therefore, a dietary intervention on a large scale and health, education in this regard may be helpful in preventing the 25 related to renal stones.