National Kidney Foundation Highlights Kidney–Heart Connection on World Kidney Day
(New York, NY) – People with kidney failure are three times as likely to have heart disease and so the National Kidney Foundation is urging Americans to think about protecting their kidneys and saving their hearts this March during National Kidney Month and on World Kidney Day, March 8, 2012.
More than 26 million Americans have chronic kidney disease and most don’t know it.
“Since kidney disease is often silent without any symptoms, it can sneak up on people, especially those who are not aware of the major risk factors. Yet there are basic steps to take to prevent both kidney and heart disease. Stopping smoking, keeping blood pressure under control, eating a low salt and low fat diet and maintaining a healthy body weight are all critical,” says Dr. Joseph Vassalotti, Chief Medical Officer of the National Kidney Foundation.
According to the National Kidney Foundation, heart disease is a risk factor for kidney disease and kidney disease is a known risk factor for heart disease so it’s important for those who have one of these diseases to get tested for both.
“Early detection and treatment can make a difference in preventing kidney disease from becoming kidney failure and can help reduce cardiovascular complications in those with kidney disease,” continues Vassalotti.
To make early detection of chronic kidney disease as easy as possible, the foundation is offering free screenings around the country through the Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP). KEEP is offered to those at risk—anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of kidney disease. Visit www.kidney.org to find a screening near you.
The National Kidney Foundation is dedicated to preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation. For more information about risk factors and World Kidney Day activities, visit www.kidney.org.
The National Kidney Foundation thanks the following sponsors for their support:
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