Researchers from Texas A&M University have found a significant connection between arsenic exposure and markers of kidney disease. Their study, published in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology, adds to growing evidence that arsenic in drinking water may contribute to kidney damage.

How Arsenic Affects the Kidneys

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in the earth’s crust, and people are most often exposed to it through contaminated groundwater. Long-term exposure to arsenic has already been linked to cancers, heart disease, and skin disorders. This new research now strengthens concerns that arsenic may also harm kidney health.

The study analyzed data from 9,057 adults in the United States, collected between 2007 and 2018 as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The researchers looked at urinary arsenic levels and compared them to several markers of kidney damage, including:

• Albuminuria – the presence of a protein in urine, a sign of kidney dysfunction
• Hyperuricemia – high uric acid levels in the blood, which can contribute to kidney disease
• High blood urea nitrogen – an indicator of reduced kidney function
• Low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) – a key measure of kidney health

After adjusting for sociodemographic and health factors, the researchers found that people with the highest arsenic levels in their urine had a 29% greater risk of kidney damage compared to those with the lowest levels.

• Albuminuria was linked to a 49% higher risk
• Hyperuricemia was associated with a 38% higher risk

Why This Matters

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects about 37 million people in the U.S., or roughly 1 in 7 adults, and the numbers are rising worldwide. The kidneys play a critical role in filtering waste and toxins from the blood, and long-term arsenic exposure may weaken this function by causing cell damage, inflammation, and oxidative stress.

Lead researcher Nishat Tasnim Hasan explained that the kidneys are particularly vulnerable to arsenic’s harmful effects. Despite previous studies linking arsenic to kidney damage, a strong nationwide study was needed to confirm the connection.

“Our study helps fill that gap by using large-scale U.S. data to show that arsenic exposure is linked to kidney damage,” said Hasan.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Certain populations are more affected by arsenic exposure, particularly low-income communities and those who rely on groundwater for drinking water. Groundwater contamination is a serious issue in many parts of the world, and rural areas without access to treated water are especially vulnerable.

People in lower socioeconomic groups often face additional health challenges, such as poor access to healthcare and food insecurity, which may worsen the effects of arsenic exposure. The study’s approach considered these factors, making its findings relevant to the entire U.S. population.

Limitations and Future Research

Although the study found a strong association between arsenic and kidney disease markers, it was cross-sectional, meaning it measured arsenic exposure and kidney health at the same time. This makes it impossible to determine if arsenic directly causes kidney disease or if other factors play a role.

Future research will need long-term studies to confirm whether arsenic exposure leads to kidney disease over time. Additionally, scientists want to explore whether reducing arsenic levels in drinking water could lower kidney disease risk.

Public Health and Policy Implications

From a public health perspective, these findings highlight the urgent need to monitor arsenic levels in drinking water, particularly for vulnerable populations. Stricter regulations and better filtration methods could help reduce exposure.

“Arsenic in drinking water is a threat to kidney health, especially for those relying on groundwater,” said senior researcher Dr. Taehyun Roh. “Stronger monitoring policies and public awareness campaigns are needed to reduce arsenic exposure and protect kidney function.”

As the number of kidney disease cases continues to grow, understanding how environmental toxins like arsenic contribute to the problem could lead to better prevention strategies.

The research findings can be found in the Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology.

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