This section contains basic information about chronic kidney disease, a type of kidney disease most commonly caused by diabetes and high blood pressure.

What you should know:

• Early kidney disease has no symptoms.
• Diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and family history of kidney failure are key risk factors.
• Blood and urine tests can find kidney disease.
• Kidney disease can be treated. The earlier you know you have it, the better.

About Kidney Disease

Kidney disease affects millions of Americans. Find out if you are at risk and read about kidney disease.

Testing for Kidney Disease

Early kidney disease has no symptoms. Learn about simple blood and urine tests that check your kidney health.

Keep Your Kidneys Healthy

There are steps you can take to keep your kidneys healthy. Read more about what you can do.

Talking to Your Doctor About Kidney Disease

If you're at risk for kidney disease, it's important to get tested. Learn more about questions to ask and tips for your medical visit.

Talking to Your Family About Kidney Disease

Encourage your loved ones to discuss kidney disease at your next family gathering. Visit the Family Reunion Initiative to learn how to share this important health information with your family. Also, spread the word about kidney health with your faith-based family. Learn more about Kidney Sundays.

Even if only one person in your family has kidney failure, all blood relatives should be tested for kidney disease. Learn why it's so important to talk to your family about kidney disease.