Association between exposure to hepatitis B virus and chronic kidney disease in China

ObjectiveHospital-based, cross-sectional study to determine whether exposure to hepatitis B virus (HBV) has an independent effect on the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).MethodsHan Chinese adults undergoing routine physical examinations were recruited. Blood was tested for the presence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies, HBV surface antigen, and antibodies against HBV core antigen and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 ml/min per 1.73 m2 or presence of albuminuria.ResultsThe prevalence of HBV exposure was 42.1% (6 418/15 259 participants). There were no significant associations between HBV or HCV status and CKD, low eGFR or albuminuria.ConclusionThere was no association between exposure to HBV and the risk of developing CKD in this Chinese study population.