TO DECLARE MARCH 2017 AS KIDNEY MONTH IN THE PALMETTO STATE TO HELP RAISE AWARENESS OF THE RISK FACTORS, TREATMENT, AND PREVENTION OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE, AND TO ENCOURAGE ALL SOUTH CAROLINIANS TO RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF MAINTAINING GOOD KIDNEY HEALTH.
Whereas, kidney disease is the ninth leading cause of death in the United States, with more than twenty-six million Americans suffering from chronic kidney disease; and
Whereas, nearly ninety percent of those affected by kidney disease are unaware, as there are often no symptoms until the disease has progressed; and
Whereas, there are over ninety-five thousand people currently waiting for kidney transplants and more than five hundred ninety thousand people with kidney failure in the United States today; and
Whereas, one in three Americans is at risk for kidney disease due to diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of kidney failure; and
Whereas, the kidneys, two fist-sized organs in the lower back, play a vital role in the health of individuals by removing waste products, balancing the body's fluids, controlling the creation of red blood cells, regulating blood pressure, keeping bones healthy by producing an active form of vitamin D, and maintaining a balance of salt, potassium, and acid content in the body; and
Whereas, early detection and treatment of kidney disease can slow or halt its progress and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and kidney failure; and
Whereas, recognition of Kidney Month is to help increase awareness of kidney disease and risk factors and to encourage all South Carolinians to have a check-up to ensure they have two healthy kidneys. Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
That the members of the House of Representatives, by this resolution, declare March 2017 as Kidney Month in the Palmetto State to help raise awareness of the risk factors, treatment, and prevention of chronic kidney disease, and encourage all South Carolinians to recognize the importance of maintaining good kidney health.