(StatePoint) Kidney disease is known as the “silent killer,” as there are often no visible symptoms, and it kills more people than breast or prostate cancer. While there are many risk factors, the Hispanic population is particularly vulnerable to this progressive loss of kidney function.
Indeed, Hispanics are almost twice as likely to have diabetes — a leading cause of kidney disease — compared to white Americans. This segment of the population is also 1.5 times more likely to experience kidney failure.
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Despite an elevated risk for kidney disease, Hispanics are 75 percent less likely to be treated with more frequent home hemodialysis compared with whites — a treatment option that offers some patients benefits like quicker recovery time and a lower risk of death. Unfortunately, there are still many barriers to receiving this treatment, including provider bias and treatment options education. Patients can learn more about home hemodialysis by visiting NxStage.com/patients.
Remember, kidney disease does not always make itself known. Talk to your doctor about getting screened, particularly if you have risk factors. And, if you do suffer from this disease, research your options to determine if treatments like more frequent home hemodialysis can improve your care.
