Title: Kidney Disease: The Basics | National Kidney Foundation
Headings: Kidney Disease: The Basics
Kidney Disease: The Basics
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Fast Facts
What is Kidney Disease?
What Causes Kidney Disease?
How is Kidney Disease Treated?
How Many People Require Dialysis or Transplant?
Who is at Risk for Kidney Disease?
What's Behind Racial Disparities in Kidney Disease?
How are Children and Adolescents Affected by Kidney Disease?
What are the Costs to Treat Kidney Disease?
How Do You Prevent Kidney Disease?
Early Detection
Keep Kidneys Healthy
Preventative Medicine Pays Off

Content: 11.9% Hispanic or Latino (2018). Among Medicare FFS (fee-for-service) beneficiaries, kidney disease is highest among Blacks or African Americans (33%), followed by American Indians or Alaska Natives (30%), Hispanics or Latinos (28%), and Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders (26%). Whites (23%) beneficiaries had the lowest percentages of kidney disease (2018). Non-Hispanic Black or African-American and Hispanic or Latino people experience more rapid decline of kidney function than non-Hispanic Whites. Minority communities in general are at increased risk of progressing from CKD to KFRT and of progressing more rapidly. Blacks or African Americans are about 3 times more likely than Whites to develop kidney failure. Blacks or African Americans are 13% of the U.S. population, while representing 35% of those with kidney failure. Black or African-American race is also associated with increased risk for acute kidney injury (AKI). Blacks or African Americans also suffer higher rates of comorbid conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, resulting in higher rates of fair/poor health (age 18+, 22% Blacks or African Americans vs. 16% Whites). Compared to non-Hispanics, Hispanics or Latinos are almost 33% (1.3 times) more likely to receive a diagnosis of kidney failure.