Watch CBS News

More Kidney Stones In Warmer Climates

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Did you know that kidney stones are more common when people are dehydrated? This is why we see more kidney stones in the summer or when people are on long flights and don't drink water.

Those who worry about global warming say this could give us more kidney stones. That's right, scientists studying possible health effects of global warming say Americans may find themselves with as many as 30% more kidney stones in certain affected areas.

Studies show that people living in warmer climates are more likely and more prone to have kidney stones, possibly due to poorer hydration.

This could potentially lead to 2 million more cases by 2050. An article actually appeared in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and the research was done at the University of Texas in Dallas.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.