By Shana Potash, Staff Writer, NLM
High blood pressure is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD). The disease is the permanent loss of kidney function. Some racial groups, including African Americans, are at increased risk for CKD. NIH has been conducting the largest and longest study of chronic kidney disease in African Americans. Researchers found that the disease got much worse in about one-fourth of the participants, even with the best available treatment. The findings highlight the importance of prevention, early detection, and treatment. The study was funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).
For more information, visit www.medlineplus.gov and type "kidneys" in the search box.