CKD in Blacks/African Americans

Chronic kidney disease is more common in African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asians, Pacific Islanders, and American Indians.

You might ask, “Why are African Americans and other ethnic and racial groups at increased risk for chronic kidney disease?” As the leading cause of chronic kidney disease, diabetes is more common in these groups. Also, high blood pressure, the second leading cause of chronic kidney disease, appears more often in African Americans than in other ethnic or racial group. Many experts believe these groups may have an inherited tendency to develop these diseases. When combined with other factors, such as overweight or obesity, this tendency may contribute to the disease. Maintaining a normal weight and getting regular physical activity are two very important lifestyle behaviors to help prevent diabetes and high blood pressure.