Largest Study of Its Kind Tests Hydration Strategy for Kidney Stones
A new study coordinated by the Duke Clinical Research Institute (DCRI) sheds light on why preventing kidney stones remains so difficult. The research found that intensive behavioral support--including smart water bottles, personalized hydration goals, reminders and coaching--was not enough for many people to drink the very high fluid volumes needed to prevent stone recurrence. Researchers noted that the study’s design was the first to measure actual stone recurrence, as opposed to fluid intake or urine output, and used regular surveys and imaging to track whether new stones formed or existing stones grew. The findings help explain why kidney stones recur in nearly half of patients and point to the need for more individualized, realistic prevention strategies. Researchers say the study moves the field toward more precise approaches tailored to how people actually live and manage chronic conditions.
This study was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
