An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you're connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and sent securely.

We work with you, your family and caregivers to help you manage your chronic kidney disease through monitoring, education, diet and treatment.

"The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs. Each kidney is about the size of a fist. Your kidneys filter extra water and wastes out of your blood and make urine. Kidney disease means your kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood the way they should.

You are at greater risk for kidney disease if you have diabetes or high blood pressure. If you experience kidney failure, treatments include kidney transplant or dialysis. Other kidney problems include acute kidney injury, kidney cysts, kidney stones, and kidney infections." From the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Kidney Disease

"Chronic kidney disease means your kidneys are damaged and can’t filter blood the way they should. The main risk factors for developing kidney disease are diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and a family history of kidney failure." From the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Chronic Kidney Disease

"As your kidney disease gets worse, your health care provider may talk with you about preparing for kidney failure. Talking early with your provider about your treatment options—and making a choice before you need any one of these treatments—helps you take charge of your care. Treatment will help you feel better and live longer.

Understanding the treatment you choose and getting used to the idea that you need this treatment takes time. Each type of treatment has pros and cons. Your choice of treatment will have a big effect on your daily life. By learning about the differences among treatment options, you can choose the one that will be best for you. The more you know about the types of treatment, the better prepared you may be to make a choice." From the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases - Choosing a Treatment for Kidney Failure

Convenient and quick access to a range of kidney-related resources within VA's healthcare system.

Learn how to take care of your kidneys and make choices that will help you feel your best.

1-800-579-1970. AAKP is dedicated to improving the lives and long-term outcomes of kidney patients through education, advocacy, patient engagement and the fostering of patient communities.

1-800-579-1970. RSN encourages innovation, research and works with the community to provide the patient perspective.

The VA Caregiver Support Program offers clinical services to caregivers of eligible and covered Veterans enrolled in the VA health care system. The program’s mission is to promote the health and well-being of family caregivers who care for our Nation’s Veterans, through education, resources, support and services. 

In person chronic kidney disease interdisciplinary education group class:

We offer an in person education group both at our Minneapolis and St. Cloud VA campuses. Educational topics about chronic kidney disease, diet, treatment and mental health are discussed the first two hours of the class followed by time for questions and discussion with your fellow Veterans.

Virtual chronic kidney disease interdisciplinary education group class:

The Virtual CKD education group occurs the third Thursday of every odd month from 8:00-10:30 a.m. Educational topics about chronic kidney disease, diet, treatment and mental health are discussed the first two hours of the class followed by time for questions and discussion with your fellow Veterans.