Even a slight loss of kidney function is associated with increased loss of bone mineral density and greater risk of disabling fractures that can lead to premature death.

The relationship between kidney function and bone loss is unclear. To look into this association, researchers followed Canadians adults - 191 men and 444 women, aged 50 years and older, for five years. They assessed participants' kidney function and bone mineral density at the start and end of the study.

It was found that people with impaired kidney function lost bone mineral density faster than those with healthy kidneys. For example, study participants with the worst kidney function had a 9.3 percent greater decrease in lower spine bone mineral density over the five years than those with healthy kidneys.

The new findings highlight the potential impact of early identification of kidney disease in preventing complications that can cause disability and premature death.