March is National Kidney Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about kidney health, especially within Black and Brown communities, as we face a significantly higher risk of kidney disease. Your kidneys play a vital role in wellness by filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure. Many people of color experience kidney disease due to health disparities, genetic factors, and socioeconomic challenges and are often unaware there’s an issue until it reaches advanced stages.
Why Kidney Health Matters for Black and Brown Communities
Your kidneys work 24/7 to keep your body balanced. They filter about 50 gallons of blood daily, remove waste, and maintain the body’s fluid and electrolyte levels. They also produce hormones that regulate blood pressure and stimulate red blood cell
production. However, chronic kidney disease (CKD) disproportionately affects Black and Brown communities. Black Americans are nearly four times more likely to develop kidney failure than White Americans. At the same time, Hispanics/Latinos also face higher rates of kidney disease. The leading causes of CKD are diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity, which are more prevalent in these communities, often due to systemic barriers to healthcare, nutritious food, and preventive medical screenings www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information
Signs & Symptoms of Kidney Disease
Early detection is key to controlling kidney disease—schedule routine check-ups. Take control of your health and empower yourself with knowledge.
Look out for these early signs:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet
- Changes in urination frequency, foamy urine, or blood in urine
- Difficulty concentrating
- Persistent itching or dry skin
Remember that you’re not alone if you notice any of these symptoms. Your healthcare provider is there to guide you and provide the necessary tests for kidney function.
How to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy
Kidney disease is almost preventable with a healthy lifestyle. Here are some simple but powerful steps to protect your kidneys:
Get Enough Hydration
Water helps your kidneys flush out toxins.
Eat a Kidney-Friendly Diet:
- Reduce salt and processed foods, which can raise blood pressure.
- Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins are great choices.
- Limit sugary drinks and excessive protein intake.
Control Blood Pressure & Diabetes
These chronic illnesses are the leading causes of kidney disease, especially among Black and Brown individuals.
Exercise Regularly
Activity helps maintain a healthy weight and supports kidney function.
Quit Smoking & Limit Alcohol
Smoking and drinking too much alcohol can harm kidney function over time.
Regular Check-Ups Are a Must
Blood and urine tests can detect and prevent severe kidney damage.
Take Action This National Kidney Month
Take bold steps to support kidney health in our communities this March. Get screened, encourage everyone you care about to make healthy lifestyle changes, and spread awareness about the importance of kidney function. Organizations like the National Kidney Foundation and community health centers provide helpful resources and support for those affected by or concerned about kidney disease.
Your kidneys work hard to keep you healthy. Small, sustainable lifestyle changes can protect your kidneys and improve your well-being.
Let’s commit to better kidney health. The choices you make today will affect your future health.
By Melesha Bailey
UniteNews Contributing Writer
Instagram: @Love4LifeWellness
melesha@loveforlifewellness.com
