March Is Kidney Disease Awareness Month!

On March 1, the American Kidney Fund launched Kidney Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney disease. This month serves as an opportunity to recognize caregivers and healthcare professionals while also empowering those at risk to take preventive steps. For individuals already living with kidney disease, the focus is on promoting longer, healthier lives through education and support.

A key part of this month is Kidney Action Week, a virtual conference designed for individuals affected by kidney disease, taking place from March 3rd to 7th. 

The conference will connect patients, nephrologists, renal dietitians, caregivers, and other experts for interactive presentations and discussions. Topics will include rare kidney diseases, prevention and management strategies, dialysis, transplants, organ donation, and clinical research, among other key issues in kidney health.

Click here to learn how you can participate in Kidney Action Week. 

About Kidney Disease 

The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Kidney disease is often called a silent killer because up to 90% of those affected are unaware they have it. Symptoms typically appear only in the later stages, making early detection crucial. The condition progressively worsens, ultimately leading to kidney failure, at which point the kidneys can no longer effectively filter waste from the blood. 

Kidney damage cannot be reversed, but early detection can help slow progression and prevent complications such as heart disease. 

Women and Kidney Disease

Women, particularly those without diabetes, face a higher risk of undiagnosed chronic kidney disease (CKD). Studies indicate that 20% of women with lab evidence of CKD stage 3 or higher lack a formal diagnosis. Additionally, women are nearly twice as likely as men to have undiagnosed CKD.

Even among diagnosed patients, 40% are classified at a lower stage than what their lab results suggest (e.g., lab tests indicate stage 5, but the diagnosis is stage 4). This misclassification can delay crucial treatment, allowing the disease to progress unchecked.

Warning Signs of Kidney Disease

Be aware of these potential symptoms:

• Changes in urine frequency or amount, especially at night
• Blood in the urine
• Frothy urine
• Swelling in the legs and ankles
• Back pain
• Pain or burning during urination
• High blood pressure

Take Action for Your Kidney Health

The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better the chances of kidney function being protected. Simple blood and urine tests can measure creatinine levels and detect protein in the urine—key indicators of kidney health. Early intervention is critical to slowing the progression of chronic kidney disease and reducing complications.

Click the button below to continue learning about kidney disease. 

Read More Kidney Disease News

Sources: 

• Kidney Month 2025: Bringing Kidney Disease into the Spotlight
• Women, Particularly Those Without Diabetes, More at Risk of Undiagnosed Chronic Kidney Disease
• Kidney Month