Glomerular Filtration Rate and Blood Urea Nitrogen Levels between Coastal and Desert Regions within Libya
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Limited research exists on how geographic location and environmental factors influence kidney function. This studyinvestigates potential variations in Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) levels between individualsresiding in the coastal and desert regions of Libya.Methods: An observational, retrospective analysis was conducted using medical records. Participants (n=260) were recruited fromBenghazi (coastal) and Jalu/Samnu/Sabha (desert) regions. Inclusion criteria included age range (18-90 years) and residency in thedesignated location. Exclusion criteria focused on factors affecting GFR (e.g., pre-existing kidney disease). GFR was estimated usingthe CKD-EPI formula. BUN levels were obtained from medical records. T-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for statisticalanalysis.Results: The final sample size (after exclusions) and participant demographics was 134 participants. The study found no statisticallysignificant difference in GFR between the coastal and desert groups (p-value = 0.238). However, BUN levels were significantlyhigher in the desert group (mean = 28.2 SD = 30.5) compared to the coastal group (mean = 15.5, SD = 10.5) with a p-value of (pvalue = 0.026).Conclusion: This study did not identify a significant association between GFR and geographic location (coastal vs. desert) withinLibya. However, BUN levels were significantly higher in the desert population, suggesting potential differences in kidney functionor contributing factors that warrant further investigation.
Authors: Moath F. Alsarah, Mohammed A. Elgadra, Ali Alhamali, Gamal W. Maree, Basma F. Idris, Abeer H. A. Amer
Institutions: Libyan International University, University of Benghazi
Language: English
Subfield: Nephrology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W6967849251
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