A new study reveals that developing kidney stones before age 45 may signal broader metabolic and cardiovascular risks. Analyzing 546 patients, researchers found early-onset nephrolithiasis-57.1% of cases-strongly associated with hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, renal impairment, gout, and gallstones.
Key factors linked to earlier onset include higher BMI and smoking. Elevated serum urea and calcium levels were independent predictors. The findings suggest kidney stone disease is not just a urological issue but a marker of systemic metabolic dysfunction, urging clinicians to identify high-risk patients earlier for preventive care.