What other health condition increases the risk for kidney infections?

Diabetes significantly increases the risk for kidney infections due to several interrelated factors. Individuals with diabetes may have compromised immune responses, making them more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the kidneys. Additionally, high blood sugar levels can lead to changes in kidney function and urinary tract disturbances, creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Furthermore, diabetes can cause neuropathy, potentially affecting bladder function and leading to incomplete emptying, which increases the risk of urinary tract infections that can ascend to the kidneys. These factors collectively highlight the relationship between diabetes and an increased risk of kidney infections.

While obesity can contribute to various health issues, including diabetes, and stress can impact overall health, neither has the direct and well-established link to kidney infections that diabetes does. High cholesterol can also affect heart health and circulation, but it does not have a direct impact on the urinary system in the same way diabetes does.