FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Rosa Chicaiza
National Kidney Foundation
Phone: (415) 543-3303
Email: rosa.chicaiza@kidney.org
Website: www.kidneynca.org
  Testing Helps Diagnosis Kidney Disease Early On to Prevent Kidney Failure

VISALIA, CA --- The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is offering free chronic kidney disease (CKD) screening for people with moderate to high risk factors on Saturday, September 29, in Visalia. The screening will help with early diagnosis of kidney disease--a disease that shows few to no symptoms in early stages. The screening will take place at St Mary's Catholic Church Parish Center: 506 North Garden St. from 9 am - 3 pm in Visalia.

When kidney disease progresses untreated, it frequently leads to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life. CKD also increases the risk and severity of heart disease and diabetes. African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans and the elderly are at increased risk. "As many as one in every nine adult--more than 20 million people nationwide including 3 million Californians--has Chronic Kidney Disease though a majority don't know it," said Chris Kelly, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation.

In recognition of the widespread, terrible consequences of CKD, the California State Legislature, on its last day in session declared September 12 Chronic Kidney Disease Day.

Quick CKD Facts:

• Kidney disease is the 9th leading cause of death among all Americans, especially affecting African-American, Hispanics, and Asians.
   
• Diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of CKD.
   
• In fact 1 in 9 Americans have or at imminent risk for CKD. Right now 78,244 kidney patients nationwide are waiting for kidney transplants. There is a critical shortage of organ donors. Only half of those waiting for a life-saving transplant will receive one.
   
• At a time when 47 million Americans are without health insurance, doctor and patient education are critical to preventing and controlling this serious disease.

The nonprofit National Kidney Foundation seeks to prevent kidney and urologic diseases, improve the health and well being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation. All NKF community programs are offered to the public free of charge and are made possible through the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of philanthropic individuals and organizations. Please visit our website for information on local programs and other upcoming events www.kidneynca.org.