WHEREAS, March 12, 2020, has been designated as World Kidney Day; and
WHEREAS, Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a condition that occurs when the kidneys do not work as required to filter waste, toxins, and excess fluid from the body. Many people who have CKD are unaware of their condition; and
WHEREAS, CKD can progress to end stage renal disease (ESRD), which is the fifth and final stage of CKD. ESRD requires a continuous course of dialysis therapy or a kidney transplant to maintain life; and
WHEREAS, There are approximately 80,000 people with ESRD in the state; and
WHEREAS, There is no cure for CKD, but there is abundant medical evidence showing that its recognition and treatment can delay or prevent the onset of ESRD; and
WHEREAS, ESRD is caused by diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, inherited conditions, or other insult to the kidneys; and
WHEREAS, Diabetes is the number one cause of CKD in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Uncontrolled high blood pressure is the second leading cause of CKD in the United States; and
WHEREAS, Severe high blood pressure causes kidney malfunction over a relatively short period of time, but even mild forms of high blood pressure can damage kidneys over several years, with no symptoms evident until there is serious damage; and
WHEREAS, CKD causes high blood pressure or worsens existing high blood pressure and accelerates damage to the kidneys; and
WHEREAS, Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with CKD; and
WHEREAS, Public policy initiatives targeted at early identification, controlling cardiovascular risk factors, and early intervention for those with diabetes mellitus and high blood pressure may reduce the serious long-term effects of CKD on the population, and the significant economic burden on individuals and society; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the Assembly of the State of California, the Senate thereof concurring, That the Legislature recognizes March 12, 2020, as California Kidney Day, and urges Californians to familiarize themselves with the causes and consequences of chronic kidney disease and the importance of intervention to promote sustained health and a better quality of life; and be it further
Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the Assembly transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.