South Korea reports over 335,000 urinary stone patients in 2025

Data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service indicates that over 335,000 patients in South Korea were treated for urinary stones in 2025. Among these patients, males accounted for approximately 223,092 cases, which is nearly double the 112,715 cases reported for females.

Urinary stones can occur in the kidneys, ureters, or bladder, often causing severe flank pain, hematuria, nausea, and vomiting. If fever or chills accompany the pain, it may indicate a urinary tract infection requiring prompt medical attention.

Treatment methods vary based on the size and location of the stones. Small stones may be managed through observation and medication to encourage natural passage. For larger or more difficult stones, options include extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy using lasers, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy for stones exceeding 2cm. Recent advancements include robot-assisted surgery utilizing AI to assist with flexible endoscopes.

To prevent recurrence, medical experts emphasize maintaining adequate hydration to prevent the concentration of calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. However, fluid intake should be tailored to an individual's activity level and physical condition, particularly for those with heart or kidney diseases.