March is Kidney Month
Kidney Foundation draws attention to the urgent need for early detection of chronic kidney disease

"Few people are aware of the vital role that kidneys play in overall health," notes Niloufer Bhesania, national resident of the Kidney Foundation. "And for those with major risk factors such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is even more important to know the warning signs and to get tested regularly."

An estimated two million Canadians have chronic kidney disease, or are at risk of developing it. Undetected and left untreated, it can lead to kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant. However, in many cases, progression to end-stage disease can be prevented or delayed by treating the risk factors.

"An educated public committed to kidney health is one of the Foundation's key priorities over the next five years," says Bhesania.

In concert with the Foundation's public education strategy, The Canadian Society of Nephrology (CSN) has recently issued recommendations that will provide guidance to healthcare professionals for the care and referral of their patients who have reduced kidney function.

Dr. Brendan Barrett, president of the CSN, explains the importance of this synergy. "We need to ensure that there is alignment of health systems and health professionals with the messages intended for the public at risk. That's when you can really have a major impact on public health."

The Kidney Foundation of Canada is the national volunteer organization committed to kidney health and to improving the lives of all Canadians affected by kidney disease.

The Canadian Society of Nephrology is the national society of physicians and scientists specializing in the care of people with kidney disease, and in research related to the kidney and kidney disease.

Are you at risk for kidney disease?

If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or if you have a family member whose kidneys have failed, you are at greater risk for kidney disease. Certain ethnic groups, including first nation's peoples are also considered to be at higher risk.

If you belong to one of the above risk groups, The Kidney Foundation of Canada encourages you to: * Discuss your blood pressure target with your doctor who will recommend therapies and dietary and lifestyle changes to help you

achieve your goal. * Keep blood sugar as close to normal as possible - you will minimize your chances of developing diabetic kidney disease. * Ask your doctor about a lab test known as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). This test is widely seen as the most effective

way to detect kidney disease in its earliest stages - when it is more treatable. * Be sure to get tested regularly. This will help you and your doctor to monitor your kidney function, which may change over time. * Continue to manage your blood sugar and high blood pressure carefully, even if your kidneys are healthy or if your loss of kidney

function is non-progressive.