[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 114 (Friday, August 2, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1222]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         KIDNEY AWARENESS WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. WILLIAM L. OWENS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, August 2, 2013

  Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the great work of 
the American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA) and their efforts to 
raise awareness about chronic kidney disease (CKD). From August 5-9, 
the ANNA is hosting Kidney Disease Awareness and Education week, where 
ANNA members are holding a series of events raising awareness of the 
growing health problems associated with kidney disease.
  CKD's onset usually stems from the improper treatment of diabetes and 
high blood pressure, when the kidneys fail to filter blood properly. 
Overtime, the kidneys can lose their functionality and as a result, 
increase one's chances of kidney failure, cardiovascular diseases such 
as heart attacks and heart failure, along with other serious health 
issues. Unfortunately, CKD impacts over 25 million adults in the United 
States.
  The American Nephrology Nurses Association (ANNA), organized in 1969, 
is a nonprofit organization made of over 10,000 nephrology nurses whose 
mission is to educate the public and improve the lives of those with 
kidney disease. ANNA pursues this mission through educational and 
advocacy programs encouraging understanding of nephrology nursing.
  Much is demanded of nephrology nurses. They are required to handle 
many tasks at once, while demonstrating extraordinary attention to 
detail and dedication while also caring and comforting their patients.
  I want to thank America's nephrology nurses for all they do, 
particularly those who serve my constituents in the 21st Congressional 
district. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the efforts of 
the American Nephrology Nurses Association and Kidney Disease Awareness 
and Education week.

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