The prevalence of kidney stones in the United States is
markedly higher than when last measured in 1988–1994,
and this increase is likely related to dietary and lifestyle
factors. Given the temporary disability imposed by a
symptomatic stone event, these findings have important
implications for a disease that burdens a primarily workingage
population. These findings suggest that the direct and
indirect costs of kidney stones will continue to rise in the
United States, and efforts should be directed toward
ameliorating the burden of urinary stone disease.