Obesity-Related Glomerulopathy

Obesity-Related Glomerulopathy (ORG) is a type of kidney damage directly caused by excess body weight. The kidneys’ filtering units (glomeruli) become overworked and enlarged, eventually leading to protein leakage in the urine and reduced kidney function over time.

Obesity-Related Glomerulopathy is a secondary form of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) characterised by glomerulomegaly, podocyte hypertrophy, and progressive proteinuria in the absence of other primary renal diseases. It arises from obesity-induced glomerular hyperfiltration, increased renal plasma flow, and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. ORG is increasingly recognised as a leading cause of end-stage renal disease paralleling the global obesity epidemic.

Weight loss — whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or bariatric surgery — can significantly reduce proteinuria and slow the progression of ORG. At Accord Medical, Dr Joseph Wang incorporates kidney health monitoring into comprehensive weight management plans for at-risk patients.