DaVita Recognizes ‘World Kidney Day’ to Raise Awareness

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. - 20-million Americans have chronic kidney disease and another 20-million more are at risk for kidney disease but are unaware of their condition.

Today is World Kidney Day and DaVita Inc., a leading provider of kidney dialysis services, is joining the effort to help raise awareness about the importance of our kidneys, proper kidney care and the treatment of chronic kidney disease.

In addition to building awareness and in honor of World Kidney Day, DaVita has developed a unique “Seed of Awareness” program to help support The Kidney TRUST and help touch the lives of those affected by chronic kidney disease. For very “seed” planted by visitors to the DaVita Web site today, DaVita will donate $1 to The Kidney TRUST, a 501c3 non-profit whose mission to create a world of hope, health, action and engagement for those affected by chronic kidney disease.

“Proper kidney health should be a concern for everyone, as kidneys play a very important role in keeping our bodies free of toxins and impurities,” said Revkah Balingit, RN, DaVita Clinical Educator for Chronic Kidney Disease. “World Kidney Day is an opportunity for everyone to recognize the how critical a role kidneys play in overall health and determine whether they are at risk of developing kidney disease.”

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) develops when the kidneys lose most of their ability to remove waste and maintain fluid and chemical balances in the body. The degree of chronic kidney disease depends on how well the kidneys filter wastes from the blood and can progress quickly or take many years to develop.

Major causes of kidney disease include diabetes (responsible for about 40 percent of all kidney failure) and high blood pressure (responsible for approximately 25 percent of kidney failure). Those with diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history of such conditions is considered to be “at risk” for kidney disease. Other causes include genetic diseases, autoimmune diseases, birth defects, and other problems.

Fortunately, chronic kidney disease can be detected early and treated successfully. Anyone with diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease can take steps to try and prevent or at least delay the progression of CKD.

DaVita is helping to keep the public informed about who may be at risk for the disease and to provide valuable resources to those already affected by the disease. The company is offering community education to raise awareness of these risk factors and to provide information about preventive measures.