
What Is Chronic
Kidney Disease?
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10 facts about kidney disease
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About 15% of US adults have CKD. That’s about 37 million people.
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The leading causes of CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure. Together they account for 73% of new diagnoses.
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Most people are born with 2 kidneys, and you only need 1 to live a healthy life.
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Early detection and treatment is key. 9 out of 10 adults with CKD do not know they have it.
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Chronic kidney disease progresses in 5 stages and may eventually lead to complete kidney failure.
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The progression of CKDmay be slowed by following a kidney-friendly diet, managing medications, and making healthy lifestyle choices.
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Kidney disease affects people of all ages, though people 60 and over are the most likely to develop it.
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Certain ethnic groups, including African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans, are at a higher risk of CKD.
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Many people with kidney disease are choosing to treat at home—nearly 61,000 people in 2017.
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More than 100,000 people in the US are waiting for kidney transplants. About 17,000 people a year receive one.
What are the signs or symptoms of kidney disease?
Kidney disease is hard to detect early because many people do not experience symptoms until the later stages. CKD symptoms and signs may include changes in urination, fatigue, itching, back pain, or swelling of your hands or feet. The best way to understand your kidney health is by requesting a blood test from your doctor to measure your estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Your eGFR is a measurement of how well your kidneys function to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluid from your body. Knowing your eGFR will help your doctor determine if you have kidney disease and what stage of kidney disease you may be in.

Are you at risk for kidney disease?
There are certain factors that put you at a higher risk for CKD, including your family history, certain health conditions, ethnicity, or overuse of medications. Take action—early diagnosis is key! Get screened for CKD if you have any known risk factors, including diabetes or high blood pressure.

What causes CKD?

How is kidney disease diagnosed?
KNOW YOUR GFR
UNDERSTANDING THE STAGES OF CKD
There are 5 stages of chronic kidney disease. Your stage is determined by your level of kidney function. Knowing your stage and what steps to take can help you stay your healthiest.
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