Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 1 in 7 adults in the United States, but 9 out of 10 people with CKD don't know they have it because it's not until later stages that symptoms become apparent. Unfortunately, it's also in later stages when a lot of damage to the kidneys has already occurred and actions such as dialysis or kidney transplant are necessary.

Early diagnosis through a urine test for albumin, a blood test for serum creatinine to estimate GFR, and a simple blood pressure measurement can allow for early interventions such as controlling blood pressure (and blood sugar if diabetic) to slow the progression of CKD. These tests are especially important for populations at increased risk including:

• People with high blood pressure
• People with diabetes
• Adults aged 60 and older
• People with a family history of kidney disease
• US minority populations

 

•  Ensuring they will have a place to turn when they need answers.
• Keeping up the fight for policy changes to protect kidney patients and living donors.
• Driving innovation in transplantation and get more loved ones off the kidney transplant waitlist.

 

Whether you or loved ones have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease or are at risk for it, please consider donating to support my efforts with the National Kidney Foundation!