March is National Kidney Month and the Kidney Foundation of Western New York is encouraging everyone to learn more about their kidney health and the risk factors for kidney disease. People of any age can be affected by kidney disease, but it is more common in those 65 and older.
More than 35.5 million Americans have chronic kidney disease – that’s about one in seven adults. The disease is underdiagnosed since a person may lose up to 90 percent of their kidney function before symptoms develop. Someone who reaches end stage renal disease, also called kidney failure, will eventually need regular dialysis treatments or a kidney transplant to stay alive.
The Kidney Foundation encourages people to know about the biggest risk factors for kidney disease, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and family history of kidney failure. Early identification and treatment may help to slow kidney damage and prevent health complications.
“It’s important to talk with your health team about your kidney function, especially if you’re at higher risk,” said Jeremy Morlock from the Kidney Foundation of Western New York.
The theme for National Kidney Month 2025 is “Managing Chronic Kidney Disease,” urging people to take charge of their health.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has provided these healthy lifestyle tips to take charge of kidney health:
Meet regularly with your health care team.
Staying connected with your doctor, whether in-person or using telehealth via phone or computer, can help you maintain your kidney health.
Manage blood pressure and monitor blood glucose levels.
Work with your doctor to develop a plan to meet your blood pressure goals and check your blood glucose level regularly if you have diabetes.
Take medicine as prescribed and avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen.
Your pharmacist and doctor need to know about all the medicines you take.
Create a healthy meal plan and consider working with your doctor to develop a weight-loss plan that works for you.
Reduce stress and make physical activity part of your routine.
Consider healthy stress-reducing activities and get at least 30 minutes or more of physical activity each day.
Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.
If you smoke, take steps to quit.
“It may seem difficult, but small changes can go a long way to keeping your kidneys and you healthier for longer,” noted the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.
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