Unaware of the Silent Killer: 90% of Americans with Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition where the kidneys become damaged and unable to function properly. It is estimated that 90% of Americans with CKD are unaware they have it. This is because the disease is often asymptomatic until it progresses to the point where dialysis is needed. To raise awareness of CKD, Dr. Greg Silverman recently spoke on the topic in a video transcript.

Dr. Silverman explains that CKD is a silent disease, which is why so many people remain unaware of their condition. As such, it is important to know if you are at risk. Those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney disease should be vigilant and seek regular testing to detect early signs of CKD. Symptoms of CKD are not obvious, and the condition can go unnoticed for years until it's too late.

Dr. Silverman also highlights that excessive salt intake is a significant risk factor for CKD. While salt is necessary for our bodies, we often consume far more than we need. Over time, excess salt can damage the kidneys, contributing to CKD. It is recommended that those at risk of CKD limit their salt intake to avoid kidney damage.

People with CKD can also be at risk for further complications if they take certain medications. While most medications are safe for those with CKD, some can damage the kidneys. Therefore, it is important to consult a physician about medication management if you have CKD.

Finally, Dr. Silverman emphasizes the importance of regular doctor visits to detect CKD early on. Annual check-ups, blood pressure and diabetes testing, and urine testing are all critical for early detection. Dr. Silverman likens it to checking the oil in a car. You need to keep an eye on it regularly to catch any problems before they become catastrophic.

CKD is a serious condition that affects many Americans. The good news is that early detection and management can help prevent complications and prolong kidney function. By following the advice of Dr. Silverman and seeking regular testing, people can take steps to protect their kidneys and their overall health.

‍

‍

‍

‍

About Dr. Gregg Silverman

Dr. Silverman is a native South Texan, having grown up in Corpus Christi and attended King High School. He is a graduate of Tulane University in New Orleans with a Bachelor of Science in Bio-Medical Engineering. He graduated from Texas Tech University Medical School in 1990, and completed his internship year at Parkland Hospital University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. He attended residency training at the University of Texas Houston School of Medicine Associated Hospitals and subsequently completed his fellowship in cardiology at the University of Texas Houston Medical School Affiliate Hospitals and Texas Heart Institute - St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital in Houston. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiology and his interests lie in congestive heart failure, cardiac transplantation, preventive cardiology and cardiac diseases in women.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

Related Articles

‍What Do Your Kidneys Do?

What is Dialysis?

What is Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)?

‍

References‍

90 percent of Americans with chronic kidney disease don't know they have it. Here's why.

‍

‍

‍

‍About the Author

Rich Foreman brings over 30 years of technology leadership to his role of CEO and Co-Founder of KidneySoft.  As founding CTO, Rich led the team that developed the CordicoShield / CordicoFire Wellness App. Cordico was honored with the Sacramento Innovation Award in 2021. After achieving a 7 digit ARR, Cordico was acquired by Lexipol in 2020. Rich has a BS in Industrial Engineering from the University of Washington, an MPA from Troy State University and was an officer in the U.S. Navy. Rich co-authored his book, "Tap into the Mobile Economy." Rich's blog was listed in Top 20 Marketing Mobile Blogs of 2014. He has been featured on KCRA3, NEWS10, 1170 Tech AM PowerDrive, Business Radio Money 105.5, SiliconIndia, the Sacramento Business Journal, and the Sacramento Bee. Rich is also the Founding Director of the Sacramento Chapter of Startup Grind and served a term as Utility Commissioner for the City of Folsom. Rich is a regular contributor to TechWire.net and StartupSac. Rich was the Co-founder of Apptology which was named Small Business of the Year in 2014 by the Sacramento Asian Pacific Chamber. He was also the Founding Chief Technology Officer at Cordico. Cordico was acquired by Lexipol in 2020.  Rich also served 4 years as a Naval Officer in the Civil Engineer Corps.

‍

Patient Education Disclaimer

This material is for informational purposes only. It does not replace the advice or counsel of a doctor or health care professional. KidneyLuv makes every effort to provide information that is accurate and timely, but makes no guarantee in this regard. You should consult with, and rely only on the advice of, your physician or health care professional.