Most people believe that if they are sick, they will feel it. We wait for the pain, the fatigue, or the fever to tell us something is wrong. But when it comes to your kidneys, silence is not golden—it is dangerous.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is often called a “silent killer” because it frequently shows no symptoms until the kidneys are nearly failing. By the time someone notices physical changes, the damage is often advanced
The Leading Culprits: Diabetes and Hypertension
While many factors contribute to kidney health, two conditions are responsible for the vast majority of kidney failure cases:
1. Diabetes: High blood sugar acts like sandpaper on the delicate filters of the kidney, scarring them over time.
2. High Blood Pressure: Hypertension puts excessive pressure on the small blood vessels in the kidneys, causing them to weaken or harden.
If you are living with either of these conditions, your kidneys are on the front lines every single day.
Disparities in Health: A Focused Reality
It is a sobering reality that kidney disease does not affect all communities equally. Statistics show that African Americans are disproportionately affected, being nearly four times more likely to develop kidney failure than Caucasians.
This disparity is driven by a complex mix of genetic predispositions, such as the APOL1 gene, and systemic issues including limited access to early screening and preventative care. Acknowledging this is the first step toward changing the narrative through advocacy and education.
The Power of the “Big Three” Tests
Since you cannot rely on how you “feel,” you must rely on data. If you have a family history of kidney disease, struggle with obesity, or have cardiovascular issues, you should advocate for these three specific tests:
• Creatinine: A blood test that measures a waste product your kidneys should be filtering out.
• eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): This number tells you how well your kidneys are filtering based on your creatinine levels, age, and sex.
• Urine Albumin: A simple urine test to see if protein is “leaking” through your kidney filters—often the earliest sign of trouble.
Take Action Early
Early detection doesn’t just mean finding a problem; it means finding an opportunity to slow the progression of the disease through lifestyle changes, medication, and specialized care.
Don’t wait for symptoms to speak up. Start the conversation with your healthcare provider today.
My name is Hilda Addo, and I’m your kidney disease advocate.
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