Assessment of Health Effects of Air Purifier Interventions on Chronic Kidney Disease Patients

Objectives: Recent research has demonstrated that increasing levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are associated with reduced glomerular filtration rates and elevated risks of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). To mitigate health impacts from PM2.5 exposure, recommendations include limiting outdoor activities, using air purifiers to improve indoor air quality, and wearing protective masks when outdoors. However, scientific evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions remains insufficient, particularly concerning how PM2.5 mitigation affects CKD progression. Therefore, this exploratory study aims to evaluate the impact of indoor air quality improvement via air purifiers on the health of CKD patients. Methods: A randomized, single-blind, crossover study was conducted at two university hospitals in Seoul and Incheon, involving 24 CKD patients and 24 healthy controls. Participants underwent two repeated measures with each receiving either a true filter or a sham filter in air purifiers for four weeks, separated by a two-week washout period. The sequence of filter application was counterbalanced between two groups. Data collection included surveys on lifestyle, medical history, and living environment, as well as blood, urine, and vascular endothelial function tests. The relationship between air purifier usage and health outcomes was analyzed.