Prevention saves lives Early Action. Better Outcomes.
Black and Hispanic communities face higher risk for kidney disease, but all too often the warning signs are missed. From encouraging routine testing to helping people advocate for themselves, our prevention tools are designed to save lives by closing gaps in care.
What is implicit bias?
Implicit bias means having unconscious attitudes or stereotypes that affect how we see and treat people. Many people are not aware they have these biases, but they can lead to unequal treatment based on race, ethnicity, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and health status. In kidney care, implicit bias can lead to racial disparities, affecting how people are diagnosed and treated.
Know the signs
Examples of implicit bias
A healthcare provider may believe that a Black or Hispanic patient is exaggerating their symptoms and dismiss their complaints.
A Black or Hispanic patient may not be referred as early as a white patient, because doctor's are afraid that they won't follow up.
Kidney function tests (eGFR) previously used race-based calculations that assumed Black patients naturally had higher kidney function. This delayed diagnosis and access to transplant for Black patients.
A healthcare provider may not offer some people information about home dialysis because they assume they are not a good candidate for it.
Why testing matters?
Getting tested for kidney disease is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your kidney health. Here are five key reasons why regular testing is important for everyone, especially those at higher risk.
5 reasons to get tested for kidney disease
Kidney disease is more common and more dangerous than many people realize. These five facts highlight why testing matters, especially in Black and Hispanic communities, and how early action can protect your health.
- #1
People of all races and backgrounds get kidney disease, but Black and Hispanic people are more likely than white people to need dialysis or a kidney transplant due to kidney failure, also called end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or end-stage kidney disease
- #2
Black and Hispanic people are more likely to have diabetes, the top cause of kidney disease.
- #3
Because kidney disease does not have symptoms until the later stages, 9 out of 10 people with early kidney disease don't know they have it.
- #4
Compared to white people, Black and Hispanic people are less likely to be referred to a kidney doctor (nephrologist) in earlier stages of kidney disease, when medicines are most effective at delaying the need for dialysis or a transplant.
- #5
The only way to know if you have kidney disease is to get your blood and urine tested by your doctor.
Know your risk
Knowing your risk is the first step to protecting your health. Family history and genetics are two important factors to keep in mind.
APOL1-mediated kidney disease increases the risk of kidney failure in people with Western or Central African ancestry, including Black, African American, Afro-Caribbean, and Hispanic/Latino communities. Learn about AMKD.
Learning about your family health history can help you and your doctor understand your chance of getting kidney disease. Use this tool to create your own family health history chart. Learn more.
How to Take Charge of Your Health
The only way to know how well your kidneys are working is to get tested. Ask your doctor about getting blood and urine tests.
This interactive tool uses your lab results to offer a free personalized kidney health report.
Learn about eGFR/uACR kidney testing and what to look for on lab results.
Learn more about healthy eating with kidney disease.
Know your rights. Be insistent.
Your doctor is a member of your health care team, but YOU are the most important member. If you feel your doctor isn't taking your concerns seriously, there are things you can do to make sure you get the care you deserve.
How to be your own advocate
Being your own advocate means speaking up and making sure you understand your care. These tips can help you feel more confident, supported and in control of your kidney health journey.
- Come to your appointment with a written list of your symptoms, questions and concerns.
- Use the teach-back method: If you do not understand something, you have the right to ask your doctor and keep asking until they are clear. Repeat what your doctor said back to them in your own words, to make sure you understand.
- Second opinions are valid and encouraged: You have the right to get a second opinion or take time to think about any treatments your doctor is recommending and to talk to your family about it.
- Connect with others: Join AKF's Advocacy Network and become a Kidney Health Coach
Working together
HEALTH EQUITY CHAMPIONS
This Health Equity Pillar is supported by:
