What is Kidney Disease?
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) occurs when kidneys are damaged and are less efficient at doing their job. CKD is called a “silent killer” because there are few symptoms, and by the time people realize they have a problem, much damage has already been done. High blood pressure and diabetes are the two leading causes of CKD. Heart disease, family history of CKD and obesity are other risk factors.
![Kidney Anatomy Labeled, Cross Section View on White Computer generated image of kidney cross section showing the kidney interior with renal arteries and veins, with anatomy labels on a white background.](https://www.dialysispatients.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Kidney-Anatomy-Labeled-Cross-Section-View-on-White-929720296_1844x1631-e1572981560405-1024x1016.jpeg)
Role of Kidneys
Most people are born with two kidneys, which are each about the size of a closed fist. They are located in the middle back above the waist, with one on each side of the spine.
Kidneys serve an important role, as they are responsible for:
Kidney Failure
Kidney failure—also known as end-stage renal disease (ESRD)—is when kidneys are no longer able to do their job and the individual must either receive dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant in order to survive.