Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, and high blood pressure is the second leading cause. A family history of kidney failure also increases an individual's risk.

"Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the connection between diabetes, high blood pressure, and kidney failure," said Karen Sendelback, executive director of the American Kidney Fund.

"People who are in the early stages of chronic kidney disease usually have no symptoms," Sendelback added. "That's why it is so important for people who are at risk to be screened. With early diagnosis and treatment, the progress of chronic kidney disease can be slowed. Without treatment, chronic kidney disease can eventually lead to kidney failure with little or no warning."

Kidney failure is America's ninth leading cause of death. More than 20 million adults in the United States have kidney disease and currently 400,000 Americans have experienced kidney failure. Many more are at risk.

Anyone who has diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family member with kidney failure should see a doctor to be screened for chronic kidney disease. A doctor can screen an individual by performing simple medical tests, including a urine test for protein and a blood test for creatinine.

In its early stages, chronic kidney disease produces no symptoms. When the disease is advanced and an individual's kidneys are about to fail, the individual may experience:

-- Swelling of parts of the body like the ankles, feet or face

-- Burning or unusual sensation during urination

-- Foamy, bloody or coffee-colored urine

-- Urinating more often, especially at night

-- Easy bruising or bleeding

-- A listless or tired feeling

Anyone with one or more of those symptoms should see a doctor immediately to be screened for chronic kidney disease.

The American Kidney Fund is the nation's leading national voluntary health organization serving people with and at risk for kidney disease through direct financial assistance, comprehensive education, clinical research and community service programs. For more information on the Fund and its programs, please visit http://www.kidneyfund.org.

Source: U.S. Newswire