Facts:

• 1 in 3 Americans are at risk for Kidney Disease
• 37 M American adults currently have Kidney Disease…and many do not know it (Nat’l Kidney Foundation)
• Kidney diseases are a leading cause of death in the United States. (CDC)
• In the United States, diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney failure, representing about 3 out of 4 new cases. (CDC)

Some Kidney Basics:
    The vital role that kidneys play in keeping us healthy is often overlooked. Unfortunately, for many people it isn’t until their kidneys stop working well that they realize the significance of what these small organs do for us. Your kidneys, which are roughly the size of your fist, have many important functions. They remove wastes, toxins, and excess fluid. In fact, every 30 minutes, they filter all the blood in your body, keeping what your body needs and removing what it doesn’t (CDC). Our kidneys are also important in controlling blood pressure, helping in the production of red blood cells, keeping your bones healthy, and regulating blood chemicals that are essential to life.

Chronic Kidney Disease:
    Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a disease characterized by damaged kidneys that do not work properly. As our kidneys stop working well, waste products and toxins are no longer filtered out of our blood efficiently and can build up to dangerous levels in our body causing widespread damage. CKD can lead to several health issues, such as anemia, increased infections, electrolyte imbalances and depression. If the damage continues then our kidneys can fail, which would require dialysis. CKD generally progresses gradually, and the progression can be slowed by adopting important lifestyle changes.

    The good news is that there is a lot we can do to prevent kidney disease. Manage your risk factors, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity. Keeping your blood pressure and blood sugar in a healthy range go a long way toward lowering your risk. Physical activity and a diet that is low in salt also help. Annual screening of your kidney function with your Provider will help identify a decrease in kidney function early.