Astronauts embarking on missions to Mars may face permanent kidney damage, according to a new study. The research, which reviewed the health impacts on the 24 astronauts who have traveled to the moon, found significant changes in kidney function due to space travel.
Researchers stress the urgent need for drugs to protect astronauts’ kidneys during space travel
The study indicates that astronauts could develop painful kidney stones and may even require dialysis. This poses a serious health risk for future manned missions to Mars, planned by both NASA and Elon Musk’s SpaceX.
Researchers stress the urgent need for drugs to protect astronauts’ kidneys during space travel. Without such measures, the health risks could jeopardize the success of the 66 million-mile round trips to Mars. These protective medications could also benefit cancer patients on Earth, preventing kidney damage during radiotherapy.
Largest study on kidney health in space
The study, published in Nature Communications, is the most extensive analysis of kidney health in space to date. Conducted by scientists from University College London (UCL) and over 40 other institutions, the research highlights the severe health issues linked to space travel, including weakened heart and eyesight, bone mass loss, and kidney stones.
Experimental findings and concerns
Experiments showed that kidneys in mice exposed to radiation simulating galactic cosmic rays for 2.5 years suffered permanent damage and loss of function. Dr. Keith Siew from UCL’s Department of Renal Medicine stated, “If we don’t develop new ways to protect the kidneys, an astronaut might need dialysis on the way back from Mars. By the time kidney damage becomes apparent, it could be too late to prevent failure, which would be catastrophic for the mission.”
This research underscores the critical need for advancements in medical protections to ensure the health and success of future space missions.