1* Assistant Professor, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto medical university Larkana
2 PGR Pediatrics University of Lahore Teaching Hospital
3 Senior Registrar Chandka Medical college and hospital Larkana
4 Assistant professor, Pir Abdul Qadir Shah Jeelani Institute of Medical Sciences, GIMS, Gambat, Sindh.
5 Assistant Professor, Department of Pathology, Al-Tibri Medical College Isra University, Karachi Campus
6 BSN Fatima Memorial Hospital Lahore
Background: Kidney dysfunction in the pediatric population is an important yet often under-recognized health concern that can lead to serious short- and long-term complications, including progression to chronic kidney disease (CKD). In children, early stages of renal impairment are frequently asymptomatic, making timely diagnosis challenging and increasing the risk of delayed intervention. Various modifiable and non-modifiable factors such as inadequate hydration, recurrent urinary tract infections, genetic predisposition, inappropriate medication use, poor nutritional status, and environmental exposures contribute to the development of kidney dysfunction. Additionally, socioeconomic disparities and limited caregiver awareness may further exacerbate disease risk and delay healthcare seeking behavior. Early identification of these risk factors through clinical evaluation and observational approaches is essential for implementing preventive measures, promoting early management, and ultimately reducing the burden of renal morbidity in children. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and associated risk factors for kidney dysfunction among children aged 1–14 years through clinical and observational assessment methods. Methods: An analytical cross sectional study was conducted at tertiary care hospitals. Structured questionnaires and caregiver interviews gathered data on demographics, family history of kidney disease, hydration habits, dietary patterns, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), medication use, and environmental exposures. Associations between risk factors and clinical indicators of kidney dysfunction were assessed using chi square tests. Results: Low fluid intake (45%), recurrent UTIs (30%), family history of kidney disease (20%), improper medication use (25%), and environmental exposures (15%) were prominent risk factors. Poor nutrition and low socioeconomic status were additional contributors. Conclusion: Clinical and observational assessments are effective for identifying pediatric populations at risk of kidney dysfunction. Early preventive strategies and caregiver education can improve outcomes and reduce long term renal complications. .
Keywords: Pediatric kidney dysfunction, risk factors, observational assessment, preventive strategies, urinary tract infections. .
How to cite this article: Qadri GA, Arslan A, Ahmed S, Chandio R, Khoso MY, Hussain B. Assessment of Risk Factors for Kidney Dysfunction in Pediatric Populations. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(42s): 698-700. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.42s.78
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None.