Original Article Association between sodium intakes with the risk of chronic kidney disease: evidence from a meta-analysis

Objective: Inconsistent results regarding the association between sodium intake and the risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been reported. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to summarize the evidence from epidemiological studies of sodium with the risk of CKD. Methods: Pertinent studies were identified by searching of PubMed and Web of Science. The random effect model was used to combine the results. Meta-regression and sub- groups analyses were used to explore potential sources of between-study heterogeneity. Publication bias was esti- mated using Egger's regression asymmetry test. Results: Finally, 9 articles involving 5638 CKD cases were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled results suggested that highest sodium intake level versus lowest level was significantly associated with the risk of CKD (summary relative risk (RR) = 1.088, 95% CI = 1.009-1.193, I 2 = 78.1%), especially among Europe (summary RR = 1.097, 95% CI = 1.009-1.205), but not in the America. The association was also found in the prospective studies (summary RR = 1.096, 95% CI = 1.007-1.192), but not in the cross-sectional stud- ies. No evidence of significant publication bias was found. Conclusions: Higher sodium intake might increase the risk of CKD.