The American Kidney Fund (AKF) is launching a comprehensive public health initiative on March 1, 2026, aimed at increasing awareness of kidney disease, which affects approximately 1 in 7 American adults. The campaign, titled "Kidneys Count," focuses on promoting early detection and prevention strategies through direct engagement with the public and healthcare providers. The initiative encourages Americans to prioritize kidney health discussions with their medical practitioners and to understand their individual risk factors.
As part of the broader campaign, the AKF will host Kidney Action Week from March 2-5, 2026, featuring a series of expert-led sessions dedicated to kidney disease management and treatment options. These educational events are designed to provide evidence-based information to both patients and caregivers seeking to understand disease progression and available medical interventions.
The timing of the campaign reflects growing concerns about chronic kidney disease prevalence in the United States. By emphasizing preventive measures and early medical intervention, the AKF aims to address the significant public health burden associated with undiagnosed or late-stage kidney disease, which can lead to substantial healthcare costs and complications if left untreated.