ABSTRACT

Objective: The objective of this research was to analyse the effects of overweight and obesity in relation to markers of chronic graft dysfunction (ie, dyslipidaemia, high blood pressure and proteinuria), and study their impact on the quality of life of kidney graft recipients in the first year after transplantation.

Methods: This study monitored 1500 kidney transplant recipients of both genders. One year after receiving the graft, all of the patients had blood tests to measure their biochemical parameters. Their weight and height were also measured. Furthermore, data regarding graft loss and delayed renal function were also evaluated.

Results: The results showed an increased prevalence of overweight and high body mass index (BMI) among the graft recipients, participating in the study. Furthermore, there was a direct relation between these parameters and those of health status perception, graft rejection and reduced renal function.

Conclusion: A high BMI, proteinuria, and high blood pressure in the first year after transplantation can lead to chronic graft dysfunction and significantly reduce the patient’s quality of life. Renal dysfunction markers along with obesity and a high BMI contributed to a decrease in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and ensuing complications in the first year after transplantation. This affected the quality of life of these patients who, as a result, suffered from chronic kidney disease. Consequently, their physical condition was negatively affected, which increased the rates of morbidity and mortality.