March is Kidney Awareness Month: Protecting Your Kidney Health
posted by Taylor Britton on Thursday, March 13, 2025
March is Kidney Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating ourselves about kidney health and the importance of early detection. Kidney disease is more common than many people realize, affecting approximately 35.5 million U.S. adults—roughly 1 in 7. What’s even more concerning is that many people don’t know they have it. In fact, an estimated 40% of people with severely reduced kidney function are unaware of their condition. This is why regular checkups and bloodwork are so important.
Understanding the Risk Factors
The two biggest risk factors for kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure. Together, they account for about two-thirds of all new cases of kidney failure. When blood sugar or blood pressure isn’t well controlled, it can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys over time, leading to decreased kidney function.
In the early stages, kidney disease often has no symptoms, earning it the label of a “silent” disease. However, as kidney function declines, waste builds up in the body, potentially leading to nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fluid retention, and even heart problems. The best way to detect kidney disease early is through blood and urine tests, which measure kidney function and check for excess protein in the urine.
Slowing the Progression of Kidney Disease
If someone is diagnosed with kidney disease, there are steps they can take to slow its progression. Controlling blood sugar and blood pressure is key, which can be achieved through medication, a healthy diet, exercise, and regular monitoring by a doctor. In some cases, a low-protein diet may also help reduce the strain on the kidneys. If kidney disease progresses to the point where the kidneys can no longer function properly, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be necessary.
Dialysis Services at Spencer and Spirit Lake
For those who need dialysis, Spencer and Spirit Lake Dialysis Centers provide life-sustaining care for patients with end-stage kidney disease. Dialysis is a process that removes waste, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood when the kidneys can no longer do so. Hemodialysis treatments are typically needed three times a week for about four hours per session. Additionally, nephrology clinics are available to monitor patients and provide specialized care before they reach the stage of needing dialysis. Support services, including dietitians and social workers, help patients manage their condition effectively.
Preventing Kidney Disease
Prevention starts with a healthy lifestyle. Here are some steps to take:
- Maintain good blood sugar control if you have diabetes
- Monitor and manage blood pressure
- Stay active and engage in regular exercise
- Eat a balanced diet with limited salt and processed foods
- Get regular checkups for early detection
Additionally, the American Diabetes Association’s Alert Day is observed on the fourth Tuesday in March—March 25 this year. This one-day “wake-up call” encourages everyone to take the Diabetes Risk Test to determine their risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The test asks simple questions about weight, age, family history, and other potential risk factors. Preventative tips are provided for everyone who takes the test, including encouraging those at high risk to consult with their healthcare provider. You can find the test on the American Diabetes Association website by following this link: Diabetes Risk Test.
Learn More About Our Kidney Health Services
For more information about kidney health and available services at Spencer Hospital, check out our Dialysis and Kidney Care page. Our team is ready to help and support anyone in need of kidney care.
Your kidneys play a vital role in keeping you healthy—take care of them!
For more information on Kidney Awareness Month, check out Newsradio 1240 KICD's community health podcast featuring Taylor Britton, Diabetes Education Coordinator of Spencer Hospital. Follow the link to listen to the full episode - Weekly Health Update Kidney Awareness Month: March 8, 2025
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