A Time to Prioritize Kidney Health and Raise Awareness

March is National Kidney Month, a time dedicated to boosting awareness about the importance of kidney health and the prevention of kidney diseases. This year, the spotlight is on World Kidney Day 2025, celebrated on March 13, with the theme “Are your kidneys ok? Detect early, protect kidney health.” This theme shows the critical need for early detection and proactive measures to safeguard kidney health. The global campaign, marked by the hashtag #ShowYourKidneys, aims to highlight kidney health and encourage people to take actionable steps toward care and prevention.

The State of Kidney Health in 2025

Kidney health remains a pressing global concern. Recent statistics reveal that nearly 1 in 7 people, or approximately 37 million patients in the U.S., are diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Even more alarming is the fact that 9 in 10 people are unaware of their CKD status, often because symptoms do not appear until the disease has progressed to advanced stages.

High blood pressure affects almost half of adults in the U.S. (about 108 million people) and is a main cause of kidney disease, second only to diabetes. These conditions, if left unmanaged, can significantly damage the kidneys over time, leading to kidney failure.

Why Kidneys Matter

The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs just below the rib cage. They filter waste products, excess water, and toxins from the blood, which are then excreted through urine. Beyond filtration, kidneys also help regulate blood pressure, balance electrolytes, and produce hormones that support red blood cell production and bone health.

Kidney diseases include acute kidney injury, kidney cysts, kidney stones, infections, and chronic kidney disease (CKD). If left untreated, these conditions can progress to kidney failure, necessitating treatments like dialysis or kidney transplants.

Paths to Better Kidney Care

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) and other organizations are at the forefront of advancing kidney care. Researchers are working tirelessly to develop tailored treatment plans designed to individual needs, considering factors like disease type, environment, and lifestyle.

Here are three key contributions to better kidney care that everyone should consider:

Observing National Kidney Month in 2025

National Kidney Month and World Kidney Day provide an excellent opportunity to take action and make a difference. Here are some ways you can participate:

The Importance of Early Detection

The theme for World Kidney Day 2025, “Are your kidneys ok? Detect early, protect kidney health,” emphasizes early detection. Regular check-ups, especially for patients with risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes, can help identify kidney issues before they become severe. Simple tests, such as blood and urine tests, can bring valuable insights into kidney function.

A Global Effort for Kidney Health Awareness

World Kidney Day reminds us all that kidney diseases affect millions worldwide, and collective efforts are needed to combat this silent epidemic. We can make a significant impact by spreading awareness, advocating for better care, and supporting research.

As we observe March Kidney Month, let’s commit to prioritizing kidney health. Whether it is through World Kidney Day celebrations, participating in kidney awareness day events, or simply making lifestyle changes, every effort counts. Remember, your kidneys are critical to your overall health, and maintaining their well-being requires active participation, adherence to care plans, and a kidney-friendly lifestyle.

At Signature Health Services, we are dedicated to supporting your health journey. Do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns about your kidney health or need guidance on managing kidney-related conditions. Together, we can work toward a healthier future.