Date
Saturday
Mar

March 1-31

National Kidney Month

Show your support and spread awareness this National Kidney Month - join in the fight against kidney disease!

Yearly Date
March 1
Type
Month
Category
Health

Introduction

March marks the beginning of National Kidney Month, a time to raise awareness about kidney health and recognize the importance of organ donation. Celebrated every year since 2001, this month-long event was established to encourage people to take steps towards protecting their kidneys by making healthy lifestyle choices. This is also an opportunity to honor those who have donated or received a kidney transplant, as well as those waiting for one. So join us in celebrating National Kidney Month on March 1 and make your own pledge to protect your kidneys!

National Kidney Month Timeline

1950
First Successful Kidney Transplant
The first successful kidney transplant operation was performed between identical twins in Boston, essentially creating a new lifeline for people suffering from kidney disease.
1963
Dialysis Machine Invention
The first portable and wearable artificial kidney dialysis machine was invented, a key development for individuals with chronic kidney disease.
1972
Medicare ESRD Program
The US Congress passed legislation to create the Medicare End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) program, providing much-needed financial assistance to individuals suffering from kidney disease.
2006
National Kidney Month Recognition
The National Kidney Foundation formally recognized March as National Kidney Month to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and screening.
2018
Advancements in Kidney Research
Several advancements were made in kidney disease research, including new understandings of genetic markers and the development of artificial kidneys.
2022
Continuing Awareness and Aid
Efforts continue to increase awareness about kidney health, improve patient outcomes, and advance critical research into kidney disease treatments and cures.

How to Celebrate National Kidney Month

1

Donate to a kidney foundation

Consider making a donation to a kidney foundation in support of research, awareness, and advocacy related to kidney disease.

2

Wear orange

Orange is the color of National Kidney Month. Show your support by wearing orange throughout the month.

3

Educate yourself and others

Take time to understand more about kidney health and diseases, and spread the word to those around you.

4

Participate in a walk or run

Many cities offer walks and runs to raise awareness for kidney disease. Look for one in your area or organize your own.

5

Write a letter of support

Write a letter of support to someone with kidney disease to show them that you care and are thinking about them.

Why National Kidney Month is Important

A

Kidney disease is on the rise

Every year, an estimated 1 in 3 adults in the United States have kidney disease. With numbers like that, it's important to raise awareness about this serious health condition so that people can take preventive measures and get the treatment they need.

B

Kidney disease increases risk of other illnesses

People with chronic kidney disease have a significantly increased risk of developing other conditions such as heart disease and stroke, as well as diabetes and certain types of cancer. Knowing this risks and taking steps to improve one’s health before damage is done is essential to protecting overall wellbeing.

C

Early detection saves lives

The most effective way to prevent kidney failure is through early detection. During National Kidney Month, many organizations will provide screenings, information sessions and other events aimed at increasing knowledge about kidney care. This can help people catch any potential problems early and start treatments before their condition gets worse.

National Kidney Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 28
Tuesday
2024
Feb 29
Thursday
2025
Feb 28
Friday
2026
Feb 28
Saturday
2027
Feb 28
Sunday