World Kidney Day - March 12, 2009

World Kidney Day will highlight the importance of good kidney health and remind everyone to “Love Your Kidneys!”TM Kidneys clean the blood by removing toxins and helping to regulate blood pressure.

More than 26 million Americans have chronic kidney disease (CKD) and millions more are at risk. It’s important to know that there’s a link between high blood pressure and kidney disease. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, you should get your kidneys checked out. Early detection can make a big difference. If your high blood pressure and diabetes are under control, you may be able to prevent kidney damage. Getting tested is a positive step toward keeping your kidneys healthy.

For further information about kidney disease, or to learn about NKF’s free kidney health screenings, call (314) 961-2828.

In celebration of World Kidney Day, the National Kidney Foundation will host the following events:

• March 9, 7:30 a.m. – Kidney Walk Honorary Chair, Olympic Champion Jackie Joyner Kersee, will be featured at our Kidney Walk Corporate Breakfast at the Frontenac HiltonMarch 12, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. – Kidney Health Risk Assessment Screening will take place at NKF’s new office – 10803 Olive Boulevard, Suite 200, in Creve CoeurMarch 12, 5:30 p.m. – Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Official Grand Opening of NKF’s new office – 10803 Olive Boulevard in Creve Coeur.
  
  
• March 21, 7:30-11:30 a.m. – KEEP Screening, La Grange College – Roland Fine Arts Center – Hannibal, Mo.

Kidney Risk Quiz

1. Do you have diabetes?
2. Do you have high blood pressure or heart disease?
3. Do you have a family history of diabetes, high blood pressure or kidney disease?
4. Are you age 60 or older?
5. Are you African American, Hispanic, Asian or Pacific Islander?*
   
   If your answer is “yes” to any of these questions, you are at risk for kidney disease. Talk to your doctor about getting a simple kidney test, or call the National Kidney Foundation for further information at (314) 961-2828.

*African Americans, Hispanics, Asians and Pacific Islanders are at increased risk for kidney disease, since diabetes is more common in these groups than the general population.