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March is National Kidney Month

Communities and partners across Michigan are raising awareness about kidney disease risk factors, promoting screenings, and increasing knowledge about kidney health. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an under-recognized condition marked by the gradual loss of kidney function, reducing the body’s ability to remove waste. CKD affects more than one in seven U.S. adults—about 35.5 million people—and more than one million Michigan adults age 20 and older. Routine screening and early detection allow for timely disease management that can slow progression and help prevent kidney failure.

Kidney disease awareness starts with understanding the risks, especially for those with diabetes and/or high blood pressure. Knowing a person’s family history and talking to a health care provider about screening is a good place to start. 

Looking for support and education opportunities:

  • If you have diabetes, it can be challenging and ever-changing with new medications, balancing healthy eating, and understanding diabetes technology. Attend Diabetes Training every year to learn self-management skills. Visit the diabetes services map to find a location near you.
  • Learn more about kidney health and find programs for those at highest risk through the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan (NKFM).

For people living with kidney disease, organ donation can mean a second chance at life. More than 2,300 people in Michigan are currently waiting for a kidney transplant. You can make a difference by:

NKFM also offers The Big Ask, The Big Give — a free, interactive workshop that educates participants about kidney transplantation and living donation.

Additional resources:

Join Governor Whitmer in celebrating the Kidney Month Proclamation:  March 2026: Kidney Month.