Minorities and Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects nearly 20 million Americans. The increase of CKD is now reaching epidemic proportions. The rates are even higher among racial and ethnic minorities. CKD can progress to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and the need for dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Minorities in the United States are almost two to four times more likely than non-minorities to reach ESRD (see below). The main causes of kidney disease are diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which are more common among minorities. Even with the same medical care, minorities seem more likely to get kidney disease. Many factors may add to the chance of getting kidney disease, including hereditary or genetic factors, the environment or how well diabetes and high blood pressure are controlled. CKD, diabetes and high blood pressure can cause many problems. These include disability, high healthcare costs and poor quality of life. As kidney disease worsens, the chance of heart disease or ESRD is higher. If a person is on dialysis or has a transplant, they should get their heart checked regularly.

Odds (% greater chance) of a minority needing a dialysis or a kidney transplant for end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in the United States.*

Race/Ethnicity Hispanic vs. non Hispanic Asian vs. White Native American vs. White African American vs. White

Chances of ESRD 1.45 (45%) 1.56 (56%) 2.74 (164%) 3.89 (289%)

*From the United States Renal Data System (USRDS) 2003