National Kidney Month

Every March in the United States, National Kidney Month is observed to raise awareness about kidney health, prevention of kidney disease, and the importance of early detection and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Community organizations, healthcare providers, and advocacy groups use this month to also educate the public about kidney disease and encourage healthy lifestyle habits. The Mayo Clinic, National Institute of Health (NIH), Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), American Transplant Foundation, and National Kidney Foundation provide the following:

Chronic Kidney Disease Definition and Statistics:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste, fluid, and extra electrolytes from the blood. As kidney function declines, waste products and fluid can accumulate in the body. CKD typically develops slowly over time and may eventually lead to kidney failure, also called end-stage kidney disease. Many people do not experience symptoms until the disease is advanced. The following statistics show how prevalent and detrimental CKD is:

• Approximately 35.5 million adults in the United States (more than 1 in 7) have chronic kidney disease.

• 90% of people with CKD do not know they have it.

• 55,000 Americans are on dialysis.

• 254,028 deaths each year are related to kidney failure.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Heart disease

• Obesity

• Family history of kidney disease

• Older age

• Long-term use of certain medications or toxins

• Smoking

Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease:

CKD often develops slowly, and symptoms may not appear until kidney function is significantly reduced. Common symptoms include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fatigue and weakness

• Loss of appetite

• Trouble sleeping

• Difficulty concentrating

• Shortness of breath

• High blood pressure that is difficult to control

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet

• Changes in urination (more or less than usual)

• Muscle cramps

• Dry, itchy skin

Diagnosis of CKD:

Healthcare providers diagnose chronic kidney disease using several tests that include:

• Blood tests to measure kidney function and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which measures how well the kidneys filter blood

• Urine tests to detect protein or other abnormalities

• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scans, to evaluate kidney structure

• Kidney biopsy to determine the cause of kidney damage

Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease:

CKD is classified into five stages based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). These stages help guide treatment and monitoring strategies:

• Stage 1: eGFR 90 or higher (Normal kidney function with evidence of damage)

• Stage 2: eGFR 60-89 (Mild loss of kidney function)

• Stage 3a: eGFR 45-59 (Mild to moderate loss of kidney function)

• Stage 3b: eGFR 30-44 (Moderate to severe loss of kidney function)

• Stage 4: eGFR 15-29 (Severe kidney damage)

• Stage 5: eGFR <15 (Kidney failure)

Complications of Chronic Kidney Disease:

Because the kidneys can no longer effectively remove waste and maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balances, CKD can affect many systems in the body and lead to serious health complications including:

• High blood pressure

• Fluid retention and swelling

• Pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs)

• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia)

• Acid buildup in the blood (metabolic acidosis)

• Heart disease and stroke

• Anemia

• Bone disease

• Electrolyte imbalances

• Kidney failure requiring dialysis or transplantation

Treatment Options:

Although CKD has no cure, treatment can help slow disease progression and manage symptoms. Common treatment approaches include:

• Managing blood pressure and blood sugar

• Adding medications to protect kidney function and control symptoms

• Implementing lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, weight loss, and smoking cessation

• Following a kidney-friendly diet

• Dialysis if kidneys can no longer adequately filter blood

• Kidney transplant in advanced stages

Dietary Restrictions for CKD:

• Limit sodium to 2,000mg per day or less. Too much sodium can cause fluid buildup and increase blood pressure.

• Reduce protein intake. Excess protein creates waste that kidneys must filter out.

• Manage potassium intake. Elevated potassium levels can affect heart rhythm.

• Limit phosphorus. High phosphorus levels can weaken bones and cause calcium imbalances.

• Control fluid intake if advised by a healthcare provider.

Raising Awareness During National Kidney Month:

National Kidney Month highlights the importance of kidney health and the impact of chronic kidney

disease on millions of people. Early detection, lifestyle changes, and proper medical management can help protect kidney function, slow disease progression, and promote healthier communities.

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