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An African-American woman living with kidney failure shares her story. Watch video.

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Kidney Disease Overview

NKDEP answers your questions about kidney disease:

• Background: What do my kidneys do?
• Definition: What is kidney disease?
• Risk Factors: Am I at risk for kidney disease?
• Diagnosis: How can my doctor tell if I have kidney disease?
• Treatment: If I have kidney disease, how can it be treated?
• What happens if my kidneys fail completely?
• Learn more: Where can I find more information about kidney disease?

For people with diabetes or high blood pressure: the new "Make the Kidney Connection" brochure explains the risk factors and the importance of getting tested.

Talking to Your Doctor About Kidney Disease

If you're at risk for kidney disease, it's important to get tested. Make an appointment to see a health care professional, and learn more about how your doctor can help you treat kidney disease and prevent kidney failure.

Talking to Your Family About Kidney Disease

Encourage your loved ones to discuss kidney disease at your next family gathering. Visit the Family Reunion Initiative section to learn how to share this important health information with your family.

Even if only one person in your family has kidney failure, all blood relatives should be tested for kidney disease. Learn why it's so important to talk to your family about kidney disease.

Resources

Educational materials, including videos, brochures, and fact sheets, that can be downloaded and ordered.

Related Links

• National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse - public inquiry response, publications, referrals to health information resources, and more

• Directory of Kidney and Urologic Diseases Organizations - voluntary, governmental, and private organizations providing services related to kidney disease