On June 8, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) observed National Call Your Doctor Day and discussed why visiting your doctor annually is important.* Although the event is annual, it’s important to stay engaged with your doctor and care team throughout the year. Life can get busy with work, family and other obligations, but it’s important to stay focused on your physical and mental health, and to prevent and identify serious issues. 

Why are annual exams important?

Approximately one in three adults are at risk for chronic kidney disease (CKD), because of common conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. These conditions can have little to no symptoms or side effects. Therefore, many people live for years without ever knowing they have a serious health condition. 

Making an annual appointment to see your doctor is the first step to preventing or treating any silent health conditions. Between bloodwork, physical assessment, and interview with you, your doctor can help keep track of your health year to year. 

What are CKD risk factors and what do I do if I have one?

Even for individuals who maintain a healthy weight, live an active lifestyle, and enjoy a healthy diet, certain factors could still put you at a high risk of developing CKD. The risk factors include:

• Being Black or African-American and Hispanic or Latino
• Having diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease
• Being overweight or obese
• Having a family history of CKD

NKF urges everyone with at least one risk factor or more to take a simple, one-minute online quiz to learn more about your kidney health. 

*Are you at risk for kidney disease? (2021, June 8). National Kidney Foundation. https://www.kidney.org/phi/form?version=awareness