March is National Kidney Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health, early detection of kidney disease, and support for those affected. Across the country, health organizations, state agencies, and individuals are stepping up to share resources, personal stories, and the importance of taking care of these vital organs.
The Origins and Purpose of National Kidney Month
National Kidney Month was created to shine a spotlight on kidney disease, one of the most underdiagnosed and misunderstood health conditions in the United States. Leading organizations like the National Kidney Foundation (NKF), American Kidney Fund, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs have been central to this awareness effort, offering education, support programs, and public events.
The theme for 2025 is “Are your kidneys okay? Detect early, protect kidney health!” The goal is to encourage people to talk to their healthcare providers, get tested, and take proactive steps to prevent kidney failure.
The Growing Impact of Kidney Disease
More than 1 in 7 adults in the U.S. live with chronic kidney disease (CKD), yet most don’t even know they have it. According to the NKF, over 35 million people in the country are affected. In Texas alone, more than 50,000 residents are currently on dialysis, and over 8,000 are waiting for a kidney transplant. Veterans are also heavily impacted, with over 1.4 million enrolled in VA healthcare suffering from CKD.
The risk is especially high among those with diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, or a family history of kidney disease. These conditions gradually reduce kidney function, often without noticeable symptoms until the damage is severe. In fact, many people don’t experience signs of trouble until 80 to 90 percent of kidney function is already lost.
Real Stories Behind the Numbers
Kidney Month also puts a human face on the disease. State Senator Kelly Hancock of Fort Worth shared how he lived with a rare genetic kidney disease for 30 years until his son-in-law donated a kidney to save his life. “Almost three years later, I’ve never felt better,” he said, reflecting on the personal and legislative journey that followed.
In Cincinnati, Perry Hall, who’s received two kidney transplants, reported better kidney function than most people with their natural organs. Jaime Brown, who has lupus and is in remission, uses her platform to educate others. “Knowledge is power,” she said, explaining that understanding the disease helped her regain control of her life.
Tools and Resources for Early Detection and Support
The key to reducing the burden of kidney disease is early detection. A simple blood test and urine test can reveal problems long before symptoms show. To help with this, the National Kidney Foundation offers a free online quiz to assess individual risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, or family history.
In Texas, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) provides the Kidney Health Care program. It helps eligible Texans pay for dialysis, transplant travel, prescriptions, and Medicare premiums. In 2024, the program served approximately 14,000 patients. Social workers at hospitals and dialysis centers are available to help with the application process.
The Department of Veterans Affairs also offers a full range of kidney services, from genetic testing to dietary counseling. The VA’s Kidney Medicine Program is helping Veterans manage CKD through both in-person and telehealth care.
How to Protect Your Kidneys
While some kidney diseases are genetic or unavoidable, many can be prevented or managed with healthy habits. Doctors recommend:
- Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Limiting salt and ultra-processed foods
- Staying physically active
- Drinking enough water
- Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use
The VA and other health organizations promote kidney-friendly diets, like the DASH or Mediterranean diet, which reduce stress on the kidneys and support overall health.
Raising Awareness Through Community and Action
National Kidney Month isn’t just about information—it’s also about community support and events. In Wyoming, health professionals emphasized how lifestyle changes can make a big difference. In Cincinnati, Hall and Brown are helping host “Dining with the Stars,” a public event that mixes great food with health education.
These efforts help spread the word that kidney disease is not only common but also manageable with early care and the right support.
A Call to Action
The message of National Kidney Month is clear: know your risk, get tested, and protect your kidneys. With nearly one in three Americans at risk and many unaware of it, awareness can be the first step toward prevention.
Whether it’s by donating a kidney, taking a health quiz, or simply sharing information with a friend, there are many ways to get involved. Kidney health may not be something we think about every day—but for millions, it’s a matter of life and longevity.
