Abstract: SA-PO0919
Kick, Sweat, Protect: A Systematic Review of the Renal Effects of Soccer Participation
Session Information
- Health Maintenance, Nutrition, and Metabolism
October 24, 2026 | Location: Exhibit Hall A, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Health Maintenance, Nutrition, and Metabolism
- 1500 Health Maintenance, Nutrition, and Metabolism
Authors
- Wanchoo, Arjun, Manhasset Secondary Schools, New York, New York, United States
- Jhaveri, Darshil K., Herricks High School, New Hyde Park, New York, New York, United States
- Izzedine, Hassane, Peupliers Private Hospital, Paris, France
- Gudsoorkar, Prakash Shashikant, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States
Group or Team Name
- TeamSoccer
Background
Soccer is a high-intensity sport with potential effects on kidney function that are not well defined. With global attention rising ahead of FIFA 2026 World Cup, understanding the renal implications of soccer participation is relevant. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the impact of soccer on renal physiology, biomarkers & kidney outcomes.
Methods
A structured literature search was performed across major databases to identify studies evaluating renal functional changes, biomarkers & kidney-related outcomes in soccer players and comparable athletic populations. Eligible studies included observational cohorts, interventional studies, and sports physiology to assess acute and chronic renal responses to exercise.
Results
Soccer participation was consistently associated with transient, exercise-induced changes in kidney function. Acute findings included increases in serum creatinine (SCr), reductions in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and exercise-induced proteinuria & microscopic hematuria, typically resolving within 24–72 hours. Changes were attributed to hemodynamic shifts, sympathetic activation, dehydration & muscle injury rather than intrinsic kidney injury. SCr showed limited specificity in athletes due to confounding from muscle mass and exercise-induced injury. Novel biomarkers, including neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), were transiently elevated, particularly under hypohydration and heat stress, suggesting subclinical tubular stress. Cystatin C appeared to be a more reliable marker of GFR independent of muscle metabolism. The incidence of clinically significant AKI and traumatic renal injury was low but increased in the presence of modifiable risk factors such as dehydration, exertional heat illness, NSAID use, and rhabdomyolysis. Longitudinal studies suggested adaptive renal responses without persistent dysfunction in healthy athletes.
Conclusion
Soccer participation is associated with transient and physiologic renal changes, with a low risk of clinically significant kidney injury. Interpretation of kidney biomarkers in athletes requires contextualization within exercise physiology. These findings highlight the importance of hydration strategies and biomarker interpretation in athletes. Future studies should define standardized biomarker thresholds and long-term renal outcomes.