Global Campaign Asks “Are Your Kidneys OK?”

Western New York to Join in World Kidney Day Activities on March 13

Early detection and treatment of chronic kidney disease can help protect kidney function and avoid major health complications. Unfortunately, most people with chronic kidney disease don’t know they have it. World Kidney Day will be celebrated on Thursday, March 13 and the Kidney Foundation of Western New York is joining health groups around the globe in asking “Are Your Kidneys OK?”

Niagara Falls, the Peace Bridge, the dome of Buffalo City Hall and other landmarks will be lit up in yellow, blue, and green for kidney health on the evening of March 13.

Niagara Falls illuminated for World Kidney Day.

Kidney disease is the eighth leading cause of death in the United States and is expected to be the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2040. A person can lose up to 90 percent of their kidney function before noticing symptoms, so medical tests are important to detecting the disease, especially for those at higher risk. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. People with heart disease, obesity, a family history of kidney failure or autoimmune conditions such as lupus are also at increased risk.   

“Early identification of kidney disease can protect kidney health, prevent kidney disease progression and related complications, reduce cardiovascular disease risk, and decrease mortality,” according to the International Society of Nephrology.

Throughout the month of March, the Kidney Foundation of Western New York will be sharing kidney disease resources, steps people can take to protect their health, and the stories of local individuals who are waiting for lifesaving kidney transplants. Visit www.kfwny.org or call 716-529-4390 for more information.

The foundation thanks the Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority, the Niagara Falls Illumination Board, the Home of the Dome and Buffalo LIT for helping to raise awareness about kidney health.