By Rusty Nixon Correspondent
PLYMOUTH —  Those at risk for kidney disease will be able to take advantage of a free screening on Dec. 13 at the LifePlex on Miller Drive in Plymouth.
The National Kidney Foundation of Indiana is holding a free screening as part of the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Early Evaluation Program (KEEP).  A program designed to help identify and educate individuals at increased risk, those who either have diabetes and / or hypertension or who have first degree relatives (parents, grandparents or siblings) with hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney failure.

“Diabetes is a leading cause of kidney failure,” said Gail Wright of the National Kidney Foundations of Indiana. “About 45 percent of cases are in people with diabetes. It’s also important that African-Americans and Latin Americans get tested because those two ethnic groups are also at a higher risk for kidney problems.”
The purpose of KEEP is to delay or prevent the development of chronic kidney disease. This early identification can change the course of the disease.
During the screening, medical professionals will collect blood and urine samples. Participants will have their weight and blood pressure measured and will complete a screening questionnaire, which includes questions about health status, health history and family health history.  A physician or nurse practitioner is on-site to review results with participants.  Educational material about preventing and treating kidney disease, high blood pressure and diabetes will also be available.
“The whole process will take about 45 minutes,” said Wright. “We’ve got doctors right there to explain the results. The blood test results will be mailed to everyone about four weeks after the screening. All the other results will be available before they leave.
“If you are in one of the at risk groups you really need to know your creatinine levels. In today’s economy a lot of people aren’t following up on health issues and this is a chance for a lot of people to get this information for free.”
More than 26 million Americans — or one in eight adults — have chronic kidney disease and most do not even know it.  Another 20 million are at risk. Please call to schedule an appointment at 800-382-9971.
Walk-ins are welcome.