Connection Between Kidney Disease and Family History

November 25th, 2024 by Dr Josh M Randall

If the parents suffer from one illness, will the child also do? Our genetic background tells us a lot about our health. Kidney disease is no exception. Genetics, lifestyle, and even environmental factors play a huge role. Let’s check how genetics increase your chances of developing similar conditions. Recognize the special genetic risks early to take proactive steps to protect your kidneys. Reduce your chances of developing kidney disease in the future!

Kidney Disease: Family History

Certain inherited forms of the disease are sometimes passed down from parents to children. These inherited diseases are usually caused by a mutation, or harmful change, in one of our genes. Our genetic information is stored in DNA inside our genes. A mutation occurs when there is a defect in this genetic code. These genes are located on chromosomes, found in the nucleus at the center of our cells.

Genetic mutations that lead to kidney disease are usually inherited from one or both parents. They can follow one of three inheritance patterns:

• Dominant inheritance: A defective gene from just one parent is enough to cause the disease.
• Autosomal recessive inheritance: A person inherits defective genes from both parents to develop the disease. Sex-linked inheritance: A gene mutation on the X chromosome may be more harmful if passed on to a male child since males have only one X chromosome (XY) and females have two (XX). A female would need a mutation on both X chromosomes to inherit the disease.

In some cases, a genetic mutation occurs spontaneously in a person, even if no one else in the family has the disease.

Having a genetic predisposition to chronic kidney disease doesn’t guarantee that you will develop the condition. But it may increase your risk of kidney problems.

Several kidney diseases are known to be inherited, including:

• Polycystic kidney disease
• Alport syndrome
• Reflux nephropathy
• Some forms of glomerulonephritis

Family history of chronic kidney disease is really important. Diabetes is a major cause of kidney failure and greatly increases your risk of developing kidney problems. If someone in your family has diabetes, you can be at a higher risk of developing it. Unfortunately, it increases your chance of kidney problems. High blood sugar from diabetes can damage the blood vessels in your kidneys, making it harder for them to filter waste and excess fluid from the body. This damage often progresses slowly, so early detection and treatment of diabetes are critical to protecting kidney function.

Since the causes and mechanisms behind many types of kidney disease are not fully understood. Monitor the kidney health of other family members if multiple relatives have kidney issues. Regular check-ups help catch any potential problems early.

Is Kidney Disease Hereditary?

Some types of kidney disease run in families. But most cases where multiple family members are affected are related to social determinants of health (SDoH), not just genetics. SDoH are the conditions in which people live, work, and grow up. They directly affect health outcomes. These factors include access to health care, education, a safe living environment, social support, and economic stability. If you have an unfavorable environment, you are more likely to develop high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. This, in turn, increases your risk of kidney disease.

People who are at higher risk of kidney disease may not get the preventive care they need because of barriers created by SDoH. Lack of access to health care and living in areas with limited health resources can delay early detection and treatment of kidney disease. That is why people at risk should have regular kidney function tests. Recognize and solve problems at an early stage, then the disease will be easier to overcome.

Personal Choices and Kidney Disease

Are kidney disease and family history related? Yes. But there are other great factors.

Personal choices and lifestyle decisions are also critical to maintaining kidney health. Smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and neglecting mental health can increase your risk of kidney disease. Make healthier food choices, be physically active, and implement healthy habits. It slows or prevents the progression of kidney disease.

A kidney-healthy diet helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Walk for 30 minutes a day, choose water over sugary drinks, and quit smoking. It can significantly reduce your risk of developing kidney disease.

Conclusion

Now you understand the role of genetic background and social factors in kidney disease. While genetic factors and social conditions are important, making conscious lifestyle choices can help reduce your risk of developing this disease. Take charge of your health. Make sure you eat right, exercise, and avoid bad habits. Regular checkups with your doctor help identify kidney issues early and monitor their condition. Create a routine that puts your health first. Work with your doctor to monitor and maintain your kidney health. Remember, positive changes can begin at any time, and we are here to help you along the way. Establish a healthy lifestyle and get regular check-ups with your doctor. We are here to help.