ANN ARBOR, MICH. — (February 1, 2023) — During Black History Month this February, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM) is raising awareness about two common causes of chronic kidney disease that are more prevalent in Black adults – type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure (also known as hypertension). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) often has no symptoms until the kidneys begin to fail at the important job of filtering waste from the blood. The next step is dialysis, which is not a cure, but keeps people alive until they can receive a kidney transplant. However, if caught in the early stages, CKD can often be delayed or prevented.
When you visit your doctor, ask to be screened for kidney disease. It consists of two simple tests, one for your urine and one for your blood. It’s never too early to find out if you have kidney disease. One in three Michigan adults, or 33%, are at-risk for kidney disease. If you have kidney disease, you also have a higher risk for severe COVID-19 complications. The NKFM is raising awareness about kidney disease and working hard to change these numbers. Take our one-minute Kidney Risk Quiz today to find out if you are part of the 33%.
If you don’t have a doctor because you don’t have health insurance, consider applying for health care coverage, including Medicaid, through your local county health department. You can also apply online at mibridges.michigan.gov or call 1-855-789-5610.
For more information on NKFM programs to prevent or manage diabetes, live better with high blood pressure or improve your overall health, go here or call 800-482-1455.
