Kidney Facts
Kidney disease, also known as “chronic kidney disease (CKD),” causes more deaths each year than breast cancer or prostate cancer. It is the under-recognized public health crisis.
About 35.5 million U.S. adults are estimated to have kidney disease—that’s more than 1 in 7 (14%).
About 9 in 10 adults with kidney disease (≈90%) do not know they have it.
People with kidney disease may not feel ill or notice symptoms until the disease is advanced.
About 1 in 3 (40%) of adults with severe kidney disease* don’t know they have it.
Kidney disease is the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S.
12 people die every day while on a waiting list for a kidney transplant.
Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney disease. Diabetes and hypertension cause or contribute to 2 of 3 new cases of kidney failure.
Kidney Facts
Two simple tests (blood/urine) can detect kidney disease early. Earliest detection is crucial so that further damage can be slowed or stopped.
Black/African American people have 4 times the incidence of kidney failure (ESKD) as White persons.
30% of all patients with kidney failure are Black/African American, even though this group is 13% of the U.S. population.
Almost one-third of people on the kidney transplant waitlist are Black/African American. Black/African American transplant recipients are also less likely to receive a kidney from a living donor.
Approximately 1 in 4 Medicare dollars is spent on kidney patients—$156.7 billion and growing.
Without increased investment in prevention, the total number of patients with kidney failure (ESKD) will likely exceed 1 million by 2030.
Kidney Health Resources & Support
Whether you're newly diagnosed, living with kidney failure, or supporting someone in their journey, these trusted resources can help you take the next step.
Learn About Kidney Health
National Kidney Foundation (NKF)
Easy-to-understand info on kidney disease, treatment options, and living kidney donation.
American Kidney Fund (AKF)
Offers education, financial assistance, and advocacy tools.
Centers for Disease Control - CDK Information
Reliable stats, prevention tips, and guidance for those at risk.
Living with Kidney Disease or Failure
My Kidney Journey
A step-by-step guide for people with chronic kidney disease, including dialysis and transplant options.
Fresenius Kidney Care Resources
Includes diet tips, treatment education, and a "Kidney Smart" class.
Dialysis Finder
A simple tool to locate nearby dialysis centers by zip code.
Support & Connection
NKF Peers Program
Connects patients with trained mentors who've been through it.
Facebook: Kidney Support Groups
Online community where people share real experiences and advice.
For the Community
AKF's Kidney Health for Communities of Color
Focused on risks, disparities, and tools tailored to Black and Brown communities.