Every March, the nation turns its attention to one of the most underrecognized health crises in the United States: kidney disease.
National Kidney Awareness Month is a dedicated time to educate communities, raise awareness, and encourage early detection of a condition that silently impacts millions of Americans. At RAVE, we are proud to join this important movement by spotlighting the facts, risks, and preventive measures that can help protect kidney health for individuals and families across the country.
A Growing Health Crisis
The numbers surrounding kidney disease in America are staggering. More than 37 million Americans are currently living with some form of kidney disease, and many of them do not even know it. The condition currently affects more than one in seven American adults, which translates to roughly 14 percent of the adult population. Approximately 815,000 Americans are living with kidney failure, the most advanced stage of the disease, and about 131,000 Americans are newly diagnosed with kidney failure each year. These statistics paint a clear picture of a public health emergency that demands greater attention and action.
Understanding the Leading Causes
Kidney disease does not develop in isolation. Two of the most common chronic conditions in the United States, diabetes and high blood pressure, are the leading causes of kidney failure. Diabetes damages the small blood vessels within the kidneys over time, reducing their ability to filter waste effectively. Similarly, high blood pressure places excessive strain on the delicate filtering units of the kidneys, gradually causing irreversible damage. Because both of these conditions are so widespread, the risk of kidney disease extends to a significant portion of the population. Managing blood sugar levels and maintaining healthy blood pressure are among the most effective strategies for protecting kidney function.
The Silent Nature of Kidney Disease
One of the most dangerous aspects of kidney disease is that it often progresses without noticeable symptoms until the damage is severe. Many people feel perfectly healthy while their kidney function is declining. By the time symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, changes in urination, or difficulty concentrating appear, the disease may have already advanced significantly. This is why routine screening is so critical, especially for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney disease, or who are over the age of 60. Simple blood and urine tests can detect kidney problems early, giving patients and their healthcare providers the opportunity to intervene before the condition worsens.
Steps You Can Take Today
Prevention and early detection are the cornerstones of kidney health. Staying physically active, eating a balanced diet that is low in sodium and processed foods, drinking plenty of water, avoiding excessive use of over-the-counter pain medications, and refraining from smoking are all practical steps that support kidney function. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential, and individuals who are at higher risk should ask specifically about kidney screening. Awareness is the first step toward prevention, and conversations about kidney health should happen not just in March but throughout the entire year.
RAVE’s Commitment to Awareness
At RAVE, we believe that health education is a powerful tool for change. By celebrating National Kidney Awareness Month, we aim to empower our community with the knowledge they need to take charge of their health. Whether it is scheduling a screening, making healthier lifestyle choices, or simply sharing information with loved ones, every action counts. Together, we can reduce the impact of kidney disease and help ensure that more Americans live longer, healthier lives. This March, join RAVE in spreading the word and making kidney health a priority.
• More than 37 million Americans have kidney disease.
• About 815,000 Americans are living with kidney failure.
• It currently affects more than 1 in 7 (or 14%) of American adults.
• There were about 131,000 Americans newly diagnosed with kidney failure
• Diabetes and High Blood Pressure are the leading causes of Kidney Failure.
All Radiology Testing is offered at RAVE IMAGING
• Renal Ultrasounds = the preferred study to evaluate kidney size, tumors, cysts, or obstruction
• Doppler Ultrasounds= Evaluates renal blood flow, looking for renal artery stenosis or thrombosis
• CT Computed Tomography (non-contrast CT) evaluates for kidney stone and obstruction.
• CT Urogram/Contrasted CT = used to evaluate hematuria (blood in urine), renal masses.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)=Used for Characterizing renal masses, renal vein thrombosis.
• Nuclear Medicine Renal scans=used to assess split kidney function, GFR rate, obstruction, or vascular issues.
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