New York State Department of Health Recognizes National Kidney Month

One in Seven American Adults are Affected by Chronic Kidney Disease

Department Encourages New Yorkers to Take Steps to Prevent Chronic Kidney Disease

ALBANY, N.Y. (March 14, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health recognizes National Kidney Month in March and encourages New Yorkers to get screened for chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidneys perform important functions that keep the body in balance, and detecting issues early is the best way to prevent other health problems.

"Chronic kidney disease often progresses without noticeable symptoms, making early detection vital for effective treatment," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "We encourage all New Yorkers, especially those at highest risk, to talk with their health care provider about getting screened for chronic kidney disease."

High blood pressure and diabetes are the most frequent conditions causing chronic kidney disease, and in New York State, 30.5 percent of adults have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and 11.4 percent with diabetes, according to the CDC.

Chronic kidney disease affects one in seven adults in the United States and is the ninth leading cause of death. People with diabetes and people with high blood pressure are among the highest risk groups for CKD. Significant disparities exist as Black people are almost four times more likely, and Hispanics or Latinos are 1.3 times more likely, to have kidney failure compared to White Americans. The New York State Department of Health is committed to addressing CKD disparities by implementing focused outreach, screening and treatment for high-risk populations in health centers and communities across the state.

Early detection can help prevent CKD from progressing and can extend kidney function. Blood and urine tests are used to check for CKD. People with diabetes should be checked for CKD every year. People with other risk factors, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or family history of kidney failure, should talk with their health care provider about how often they should get tested for CKD.

Ways to Maintain Kidney Health:

  • Choose foods that are lower in salt (sodium) and eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.
  • If you have diabetes, stay in your target blood sugar range as much as possible.
  • If you have high blood pressure, take medications as prescribed and talk to your health care team about monitoring your blood pressure at home.
  • If you smoke, quit. Those who smoke can contact the NYS Smokers Quitline for help in quitting.
  • Be active! Physical activity helps control blood pressure and blood sugar levels.

To learn more about chronic kidney disease, please visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website here.