World Kidney Day

World Kidney Day History

World Kidney Day aims raise awareness about the critical role that kidneys play in maintaining overall health. The observance emphasizes the importance of the early detection and management of kidney disease. It also focuses on educating people about preventative measures, such as the significance of a healthy lifestyle and diet, regular exercise, and routine check-ups. The day encourages creating opportunities for open dialogue and fostering better understanding about kidney disease, treatment, and prevention.

World Kidney Day was first initiated in 2006 by the International Society of Nephrology and the International Federation of Kidney Foundations. For Americans, this day holds unique importance owing to the high prevalence of kidney disease in the country. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects an estimated 37 million people in the U.S., making it an urgent health issue. This observance emphasizes the role of primary healthcare in combatting kidney disease and stresses the need for stronger policies in American healthcare settings, which in turn, can help reduce the incidence and impact of CKD.

In the United States, World Kidney Day is observed through various awareness campaigns, health talks, screening programs, and manifestation of educational resources. These programs aim at prompting individuals to prioritize their kidney health and spread the word about the disease. Activities often include walkathons, cycling events, or online campaigns, offering a chance for everyone to participate. World Kidney Day is observed annually on the second Thursday of March, allowing Americans to join millions of people worldwide in advocating for better kidney health.

Facts about World Kidney Day

• The theme for World Kidney Day in 2024 was Kidney Health for All – Advancing equitable access to care and optimal medication practice. In 2023 the theme was Kidney Health for All – Preparing for the unexpected, supporting the vulnerable.
• Kidneys are essential organs with a lot of responsibility. According to worldkidneyday.org, your kidneys are responsible for making urine and removing any waste or extra fluid from your blood. They help control your body's chemical balance and your blood pressure and they also keep bones healthy. They even help the body make red blood cells.
• The leading cause of Chronic Kidney Disease is diabetes. Diabetes results in high blood sugar levels, which causes organ damage and affects the kidneys abilities to filter waste.
• The cumulative global cost for dialysis and transplantation over the next decade is predicted to exceed $1 trillion.
• It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver - Mahatma Gandhi

In the News and Trending in the US for World Kidney Day

Top things to do in the US for World Kidney Day

• Drink plenty of water - 6 to 8 cups daily. Water helps keep your kidneys healthy by helping them flush out waste.
• Smoking increases the risk of kidney cancer by 50%. If you or someone you know smokes, why not try quitting? Smoking reduces the flow of blood to the kidneys which can cause them to operate inefficiently.
• Limit your consumption of over-the-counter pills such as Ibuprofen as they can cause damage to your kidneys.
• Get your kidney function checked if you are in a 'high risk' category.