Climate Change, Heat Stress, and Chronic Kidney Disease of Unknown Etiology in Gashua: Speculation on their Linkage

Climate change has led to rising global temperatures and an increase in the frequency of heatwaves, which are known to adversely affect kidney health through mechanisms of heat stress and dehydration. Gashua, with temperatures soaring between 40°C and 44°C and occasionally exceed 45°C on extreme days from March to July, presents a particularly vulner able case, as its population relies heavily on outdoor activities such as farming and fishing. This exposure heightens the risk of heat-related health issues, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Reports of CKD in Gashua, the administrative center of Bade Local Government Area, have raised alarm within the medical community and among public health officials. Existing studies indicate a correlation between high CKD of unknown etiology (CKDu) rates and climatic changes, yet the specific dynamics of heat stress and CKDu in Gashua remain largely unexplored. This oversight is concerning, given the region’s climatic extremes and socioeconomic factors that may exacerbate dehydration. This paper explores the specula tive linkage between climate change, heat stress, and CKDu in Gashua, a region characterized by extreme temperatures. The paper also underscores the necessity for focused research to elucidate these interconnections, which is crucial for developing effective health interventions and policies to protect vulnerable populations in the face of a warming planet. Cite this article as: Kizito D. Climate change, heat stress, and chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology in gashua: Speculation on their linkage. Turk J Nephrol. 2026;35(1):15-24