East Central Reporter

Sarah Bush Lincoln is collaborating with the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois to organize a kidney screening event. The event will take place on Friday, May 23, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Lumpkin Education Center, Entrance C of the Health Center.

The screenings are free for community members aged 18 and older. While appointments are recommended, they are not mandatory. Those interested in checking for kidney disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes are encouraged to attend.

To pre-register for the screening, individuals can visit https://mobilescreening.nkfi.org/preregistration. Walk-ins will also be accommodated.

The screening process includes measuring blood pressure, blood sugar levels, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and conducting a urinalysis. If necessary, a blood draw may also be performed. Fasting is not required; however, participants must provide a urine sample.

According to the National Kidney Foundation, kidney disease affects over 14 percent of Americans. It is estimated that nine out of ten adults with kidney disease are unaware of their condition as symptoms often do not appear until the disease has progressed significantly.

Preventive measures such as controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels, maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise, quitting smoking, and avoiding excessive use of pain medication can help reduce the risk of developing kidney disease.

For further information about the event or kidney health in general, contact the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois at 312-321-1500 or visit www.nkfi.org.