National Kidney Month - March 2025

NATIONAL KIDNEY MONTH

March is dedicated to National Kidney Month. The kidneys, two bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdomen, perform crucial functions to filter out toxins, produce red blood cells, and regulate pH. They filter about half a cup of blood every hour, creating urine from harmful and unnecessary waste.

Kidneys filter blood, make urine, and produce the red blood cells that carry oxygen through your body. These vital organs also control blood pressure and produce vitamin D to keep bones strong.

When kidneys fail to function properly, waste builds up in the blood and leads to a weakened system and a host of problems like anemia, nerve damage, and high blood pressure. Malfunctioning kidneys can also lead to painful kidney stones and infections that, if left untreated, require a transplant. Some pre-existing conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes, put you at increased risk for kidney disease.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects more than 1 in 7 American adults and is the 9th leading cause of death in the U.S. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects almost 40 million American adults. In 2016, three-quarters of a million people in the U.S. required dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Did you know?

In 1954, the first successful kidney transplant was performed between two identical twin brothers in Boston. This was crucial because it eliminated the issue of organ rejection, as their immune systems were genetically identical.

SUPPORTING #NationalKidneyMonth

This is a crucial chance to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health.  

How to Observe Kidney Health Month

• Join anorgan donor registry

Most organ donations come from deceased people. Register to be an organ donor when you die and your healthy organs and tissue can save dozens of lives.

• Donate to a kidney non-profit

Non-profit organizations do the important work of raising awareness about kidney disease, providing resources and assistance to patients, and connecting patients, doctors, and donors.

• Be good to your kidneys

Are you keeping your kidneys healthy? Aim for a lower intake of sodium and sugars, more whole grains and low-fat dairy, and regular exercise to reduce your risk of kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other diseases. Learn about and remember your blood type

What's your blood type? Some examples: O positive donors are needed more often than other blood types. O negative donors are considered "universal donors." AB positive donors are "universal recipients."

• Donate

Not just in honor of National Kidney Month, but in the spirit of providing the key of life to those who need it most.  

• Participate in online events

Various online podcasts and live sessions are conducted by healthcare providers throughout March to educate people about becoming a kidney health ambassador and its benefits. Try attending at least one event and get familiar with what it takes to become a kidney health ambassador.

• Inspire

One person inspiring many people to donate can in turn inspire many others to donate, which can create an exponential increase in awareness when and where they're needed the most.

• Raise awareness about National Kidney Month

You can talk to your friends and family about it or share information on social media. Shine a spotlight on human rights issues worldwide, from poverty and inequality to freedom of expression and the right to life.

• Use #NationalKidneyMonth to share on social media.