In partnership with the American Kidney Fund, NOWINCLUDED brings you a host of resources and events dedicated to helping you and your kidney health.
All about your kidneys. Take charge of your kidneys today.
What are your kidneys?
Understanding the vital role of our kidneys is crucial for maintaining good health. Your kidneys are two small organs located at the back of your body underneath your rib cage. They serve as the body’s natural filtration system. Linked to the bladder by thin tubes known as ureters, kidneys play a pivotal role in eliminating waste and excess fluid from the body through urine production. It’s fascinating to note that even though we have two kidneys, only one is necessary for survival.
So, what exactly do our kidneys do for us? They’re responsible for filtering waste and extra fluid from our blood, producing urine. The waste comes from the food we eat and chemical reactions that occur within our bodies, especially during physical activity. Additionally, kidneys help maintain the body’s electrolyte(think gatorade) balance, such as sodium and potassium levels, and ensure proper hydration.
Understanding the importance of kidney health is essential for the well-being of our community members.
What is chronic kidney disease?
1 in 7 adults in the US has chronic kidney disease.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that can significantly impact our overall health. Our kidneys play a vital role in cleansing our blood and removing waste from our bodies. However, when they don’t function properly, it can lead to a buildup of harmful substances in our system, posing serious health risks. In severe cases, if kidney function declines to a critical level, it may become time for conversations with your healthcare provider to include treatments like dialysis or even a kidney transplant to maintain your health.
It’s crucial to understand that once kidney damage occurs, it cannot be reversed. That’s why early detection and management of CKD are essential. By identifying CKD in its early stages, steps can be taken to prevent further damage and maintain your overall well-being.
To learn more about how you can take proactive steps to care for your kidneys and safeguard your health, click here.
American Kidney Fund & Kidney Action Week
Read about the impact of Kidney Action Week on Black lives.
5 Ways to Prevent Kidney Disease
Black people are at a higher risk of developing kidney disease. Find quick ways you can better take care of your kidneys and overall health.
American Kidney Fund’s Impact on Research and Advocacy
Learn how you can contribute to the American Kidney Fund’s fight against kidney disease.
5 Ways to Get Involved with American Kidney Fund
We’ve partnered with American Kidney Fund to raise awareness of kidney disease among Black individuals. See how you can get involved.
You are not alone in the fight. Watch and listen to inspiring stories from NOWINCLUDED community members who are living with kidney disease.
Check out past and upcoming events in your area.
Tailored resources and stories for your needs.
American Kidney Fund
The American Kidney Fund fights kidney disease on all fronts as the nation’s leading kidney nonprofit. They work on behalf of the 37 million Americans living with kidney disease, and the millions more at risk, with an unmatched scope of programs that support people wherever they are in their fight against kidney disease — from prevention through post-transplant living.
National Kidney Foundation
The National Kidney Foundation is revolutionizing the fight to save lives by eliminating preventable kidney disease, accelerating innovation for the dignity of the patient experience, and dismantling structural inequities in kidney care, dialysis, and transplantation.
American Association of Kidney Patients
As the leading kidney patient organization in the U.S., AAKP is committed to enhancing the lives of kidney patients through education, advocacy, and community engagement. We strive to improve early detection and diagnosis, increase transplantation options, support patient choice in dialysis, advocate for patient-physician relationships, promote research and innovation, and remove barriers to treatment access.
Our NOWINCLUDED chronic conditions community is here to support you and anyone you love. If you’re not already a member, join today! It’s free.
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