Advancing Kidney Health Equity this Hispanic Heritage Month:

National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 to October 15, is an opportunity to celebrate the rich contributions of Hispanic Americans. And for the Northwest Kidney Council, it is an important opportunity to recognize the healthcare disparities that impact many in these communities, especially chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

Recent studies show that CKD rates are nearly double among Hispanic American patients compared to non-Hispanic white patients. Studies show that the prevalence of CKD among Hispanic Americans has doubled over the past 30 years, while other groups have seen stable rates. Contributing to this trend are higher rates of diabetes and high blood pressure, two of the leading causes of CKD, in Hispanic communities. 

Equity in Kidney Transplantation Initiative: Expanding Access and Support 

There are promising initiatives working to bridge these inequities, such as the Equity in Kidney Transplantation (EqKT) Initiative at Mass General Brigham. This program, based in a majority-Hispanic community near Boston, is working to make kidney transplant care more accessible by offering bilingual services and meeting patients where they are. Addressing barriers like language, transportation, and healthcare access is crucial, as is moving away from outdated formulas to promote fairer kidney care for Hispanic patients. 

For many Hispanic communities, access to care can be challenging due to factors like lack of insurance, transportation issues, and unpaid time off work. Overcoming these barriers is essential, as early diagnosis can have a significant impact in health outcomes. Initiatives like the EqKT program, which provide culturally competent care from the start, are part of the solution to closing these health gaps. 

A Call for Continued Advocacy 

We believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality healthcare, regardless of  background or socioeconomic status.  As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s all renew our commitment to advocating for kidney health equity and addressing the systemic barriers that stand in the way. 

Join us in supporting policies that expand access to preventive care, reduce language barriers, and strive to remove systemic obstacles to treatment. Together we can work toward a future where all communities have the opportunity to lead healthy lives.