Chronic Kidney Disease is a major health risk factor in African American, Hispanic and Asian populations according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Key risk factors for CKD include: diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, high cholesterol, lupus, and a family history of kidney disease. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the most common causes of kidney failure, also known risk factors in African American, Hispanic and Asian communities. Compared with Whites, African Americans are more than 3 times as likely to develop kidney failure, and Asian and Hispanic Americans are about one-and-a-half times more likely to develop kidney failure. Here in Illinois, kidney disease is ranked as the eighth leading cause of death in these populations.

The National Kidney Foundation of Illinois is determined to change the trajectory of this situation. The NKFI is launching a statewide education and prevention campaign, Kidney Health For Life beginning in October 2021 to educate these target populations on what kidney disease is, signs and symptoms to watch for, medical screenings and treatment, and teach healthy kidney practices, good nutrition and healthy lifestyle tips. The campaign will include community engagement with the faith-based community. One key component of the campaign is community health talks that will be held at places of worship and community events in key cities throughout Illinois, and St. Louis, Missouri. Participants will get first-hand information from medical experts and key influencers and when possible, experience delicious cooking demonstrations.

The campaign will also be introduced at NKFI’s 36th Annual “Gift of Life Gala: Bridging The Gap Towards Kidney Health” on Thursday, October 28, 2021 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 East Wacker Drive. Your audience will benefit from getting an understanding of what kidney disease is, the need for doctor visits to get screened, treatment options and preventive steps to promote healthy kidney nutrition and lifestyle.