#United States #Washington, D.C. #NKF #Healthy.io #World Kidney Day

Free Kidney Health Testing on Capitol Hill

On March 13, 2025, the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and Healthy.io will join forces to offer free kidney health testing on Capitol Hill in recognition of World Kidney Day. The initiative, themed "Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health," aims to raise awareness about chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its implications for public health.

The Silent Killer

Chronic Kidney Disease is often referred to as a silent killer, as it can progress without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. Currently, one in three adults is at risk for CKD, yet a shocking 80% do not complete essential tests like the albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR), which is critical for evaluating CKD risk.

Despite being a leading cause of death in the United States and costing Medicare more than $136 billion annually, CKD remains significantly underdiagnosed. This lack of awareness can result in severe complications such as hospitalizations, cardiovascular problems, and often, the necessity for dialysis.

The Role of Innovation

To combat this alarming trend, NKF and Healthy.io will provide participants with free at-home kidney test kits using the groundbreaking Minuteful Kidney™ test. This is the first FDA-cleared, smartphone-powered at-home uACR test. With this innovative tool, individuals can check their kidney health from the comfort of their homes, removing traditional barriers to access and encouraging proactive health management.

Engaging the Public and Policymakers

The Kidney Health Expo will gather lawmakers, healthcare advocates, and citizens to emphasize the urgent need for policy improvements and better access to kidney care. During the event, test kits will be distributed, enabling attendees to perform clinical-grade tests using their smartphones and receive immediate feedback on their kidney function.

"Chronic kidney disease is a silent epidemic affecting millions of Americans, yet far too many go undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages," says Kevin Longino, CEO of the National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant recipient. This event is an opportunity to engage policymakers and the public in finding ways to enhance early detection and improve health outcomes.

Taking Charge of Kidney Health

Geoff Martin, CEO of Healthy.io, expresses a similar sentiment: "We are excited to bring real solutions to this healthcare crisis and engage directly with those who can make a difference. By placing clinical-grade innovations in the palms of people’s hands and expanding access to testing, we can improve early detection and drive better health outcomes across the nation."

With March designated as National Kidney Month, the Kidney Health Expo serves as an essential platform to advocate for essential changes in kidney healthcare. The event not only emphasizes individual health monitoring but also pushes policymakers to prioritize kidney health initiatives.

Conclusion

This initiative by NKF and Healthy.io is a significant step toward changing the landscape of kidney care in the U.S. By harnessing innovative technology and promoting awareness, they aim to transform how kidney disease is detected and managed, highlighting the necessity for legislative action to support expanded access to testing and treatment options. With kidney disease taking a significant toll on health systems and individuals alike, events like these can play a pivotal role in improving outcomes and saving lives.