With one in 10 New Zealanders affected by kidney disease, Kiwis are are being urged to take a simple step that could change the next decade of their health.

As part of Kidney Awareness Month, the national charity is launching its “Love Your Kidneys – Request a Test” campaign to highlight a largely hidden health issue affecting more than one in 10 New Zealanders.

“Kidney disease is common and often silent,” Kidney Health New Zealand general manager Madi Keay said.

“Many people can lose up to 70% of kidney function before they experience any symptoms. By the time someone feels unwell, the disease can already be advanced.”

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney disease.

Māori, Pasifika and Indo-Asian communities are disproportionately affected, with significantly higher rates of chronic kidney disease.

The good news, Keay said, is that early detection changes outcomes.

“When kidney disease is identified early, people can live long, full lives and in many cases avoid dialysis altogether. A simple blood and urine test through your GP can check kidney health. It’s straightforward and it could make all the difference.”

Throughout March, Kidney Health New Zealand will be:

- Sharing prevention-focused messaging nationwide

- Delivering free community kidney health testing events across Aotearoa (see www.loveyourkidneys.co.nz for the calendar of events)

- Encouraging New Zealanders to ask their GP: “How are my kidneys doing?”

Chronic kidney disease not only impacts individuals and whānau, it places growing pressure on an already stretched health system.

Dialysis services in many regions are operating at or near capacity, and demand is forecast to continue rising.

“Prevention and early identification are critical,” Keay said.

“One test could change the next ten years for Kiwis and this is about empowering people to take the first step to get on top of the disease early.”

New Zealanders can find information about kidney health and community testing events at: www.loveyourkidneys.co.nz

Facts about kidney disease in Aotearoa

At least one in 10 New Zealanders have kidney disease, but this may be as high as one in 7.

Kidney disease is silent, with few symptoms until advanced stages.

Diabetes and high blood pressure account for around 70% of chronic kidney disease.

Māori, Pasifika and Indo-Asian communities experience significantly higher rates of kidney disease.

Early detection and effective management of diabetes and high blood pressure can prevent CKD, or delay progression by years, reducing the demand on dialysis services.

Haemodialysis typically requires three five-hour sessions per week connected to a machine.

Most dialysis units in New Zealand are operating at or near capacity.