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?
Chronic kidney disease- 1 in 7 adults in the US has chronic kidney disease(AKF)
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
While kidney disease impacts roughly 37 million Americans or 1 in 7 people, many still aren’t aware of the disease, its causes, and its lifelong implications. That’s where the American Kidney Fund (AKF) has taken center stage. AKF works to ensure “that every patient has access to the healthcare and support they need at every step of their disease.” The organization offers comprehensive education and resources to support individuals and families affected by kidney disease, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of the condition and its impact. Similarly, AKF’s annual Kidney Action Week stands out as a flagship event, providing extensive opportunities for kidney education and awareness.
5 Ways to Prevent Kidney Disease
Kidney health matters! Did you know that kidney disease impacts about 37 million people in the US and most of them have no clue?1 Although your kidneys are smaller than the size of your fist, they work hard to keep your blood clean! No matter if you have 1 kidney or both, respect your kidney’s important work and keep it healthy. In this article, we will explore ways to prevent kidney disease.
Your kidneys are two small organs located at the back of your body underneath your rib cage. They are responsible for filtering all of the blood in your body of toxins, wastes, salt, minerals and extra fluid every 30 minutes. They help keep your bones healthy, and stimulate the production of new red blood cells. If your kidneys are damaged, it affects your entire body.
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.
Understanding Health with Dr. Joi and Dr. Kre Get ready for Understanding Health with Dr. Joi & Dr. Kre! Serving as the second installment of our Community Connect series, Dr. […]
Join us at the 2024 Maryland Kidney Walk! Hosted by the National Kidney Foundation, the 2024 Maryland Kidney Walk builds hope for a future without suffering—for every person in this […]
Join us at the 2024 Kidney Ball! Each year, the Kidney Ball has more than 250 unique and exciting silent auction items and packages. Check back at here for updates […]
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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