Urinary stone prevalence reaches 10% in Taiwan

Urinary stones have become a prevalent health issue in Taiwan, with the Health Promotion Administration reporting a prevalence rate of 10% among adults. Dr. Lai Ming-chih of the Taipei City Hospital Yangming Branch warns that untreated stones can lead to recurrent infections, hematuria, kidney edema, sepsis, and potentially chronic renal failure or increased cancer risks.

While extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is used for stable stones smaller than 2cm, flexible ureteroscopy (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery, or RIRS) is an effective alternative for larger stones or cases where shock wave treatment fails. Compared to traditional percutaneous nephrolithotomy, RIRS offers advantages such as being incisionless, providing high flexibility during surgery, lower postoperative pain, and faster recovery.

Despite technological advancements, the five-year recurrence rate for urinary stones remains as high as 50%. Medical experts recommend prevention through balanced diets—including increased water intake and reduced consumption of high-salt and high-purine foods—alongside regular medical check-ups every six months.