[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 32 (Wednesday, February 29, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E287]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING NATIONAL KIDNEY MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. TOM MARINO

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 29, 2012

  Mr. MARINO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ask the House to join me on 
March 1, 2012 in recognition of Kidney Action Day and recognition of 
March as National Kidney Month. With over 31 million Americans affected 
by kidney disease, it is critical that we make every effort to raise 
awareness and stress the importance of early detection and treatment of 
the nation's 8th most deadly disease.
  The effects of chronic kidney disease can go undetected for years 
without showing any symptoms but can evolve into a condition with the 
worst of consequences. As a survivor of kidney cancer, I know the 
importance of getting checked and beginning the fight at the earliest 
possible stage. A blood or urine screening can determine whether an 
individual is showing signs of a renal condition and in early stages, 
the disease can be treated with medication along with a diet and 
exercise program.
  However, if left untreated, kidney disease may harbor other 
conditions such as diabetes or hypertension which increases the risk 
for a stroke, heart attack, or other cardiac-related issues. Dialysis 
may be needed in the later stages of chronic kidney disease as it aids 
in cleaning the bloodstream of toxins and in the most severe cases a 
kidney transplant may be needed. While there is no cure for chronic 
kidney disease, proper lifelong treatment can slow the onset of kidney 
failure and help control the symptoms of this devastating disease.
  On March 1, 2012, I will be attending Kidney Action Day on the Hill 
in order to raise consciousness and spread knowledge that could 
potentially mitigate the tragic effects of this disease. I ask my 
fellow members of the House to join me on March 1, 2012 to recognize 
Kidney Action Day and National Kidney Month all across the United 
States so that we may spread awareness and lend a hand in saving the 
lives of those we serve.

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