Birth weight influences the kidney size and function of Bangladeshi children

Early-life conditions influence organ growth patterns and their functions, as well as subsequent risk for non-communicable chronic diseases in later life. A limited number of studies have determined that in Bangladesh, kidney size relates to its function among children as a consequence of the maternal and postnatal conditions. The present study objectives were to determine early-life conditions in relation to childhood kidney size and to compare their influences on kidney function. The study was embedded in a population-based prospective cohort of 1067 full-term singleton live births followed from fetal life onward. Kidney volume was measured by ultrasound in children at the age of 4.5 years (range 45-64 months), and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was assessed at the age of 9 years (range 96-116 months). The mean (s.d.) kidney volume of children at 4.5 years was 64.2 (11.3) cm(3), with a significant mean difference observed between low birth weight and normal birth weight children (P < 0.001). The multivariable model showed, changes in status from low birth weight to normal birth weight children, with kidney volume increases of 2.92 cm(3)/m(2), after adjusting for the child's age, sex, maternal age and early pregnancy body mass index, and socio-economic index variables. One-unit change in kidney volume (cm(3)/m(2)) improved the eGFR to 0.18 ml/min/1.73 m(2). The eGFR in low birth weight children was 5.44 ml/min/1.73 m(2) less than that in normal birth weight children after adjustments. Low birth weight leads to adverse effects on kidney size and function in children.