Director's Corner

Approximately 20 million people in the US have Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and another 20 million are at increased risk of developing CKD. Most people at risk are unaware of their risk of developing CKD. Studies show that African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics and American Asians are, respectively, 4.5, 3.6, 2 and 1.6 times more likely to develop CKD than are Caucasians.

Diabetes and hypertension are the primary and secondary causes of CKD, respectively. Research shows that both diabetes and hypertension are common in many diverse populations. Other risk factors for CKD include a family history, ethnicity, older age, high protein/fat diet and the long term use of certain medications.

Chronic Kidney Disease occurs when the kidneys can not eliminate waste or maintain the correct fluid and chemical balances in the body. Severe symptoms of kidney disease are not typically seen until kidney disease worsens. These symptoms include frequent urination, swelling around the eyes, feet and ankles, fatigue, muscle cramps, itchy skin and lack of energy. However, studies show that kidney disease can develop rapidly (within 2 to 3 months) or over longer periods of time (~30 to 40 years).

Even though Chronic Kidney Disease is progressive, there are effective ways to treat and manage the disease through awareness, medications, diet and lifestyle changes. Abbott Laboratories is pleased to announce the Renal Franchise's Healthcare Disparities Initiative. Through this initiative, Abbott will address the alarming rates of kidney disease and the related conditions in African American, Native American, Hispanic and American Asian communities. The initiative includes the Healthcare Disparities Website, patient education, patient screening, and research. The Healthcare Disparities Website will serve as a source of information for patients and the community, answer questions regarding kidney disease and how it affects minority populations, provide information on CKD education and screening, announce key events and news and highlight novel renal research. Again, we are extremely excited about this initiative and continued success to Abbott's Renal Healthcare Disparities Team!

Jerri Anne Johnson, M.Ed
Director, Medical Education
Abbott Renal Team
Pharmaceutical Products Group