Kidney Disease in Black Women: What to Ask Your Doctor

Spread the love

by Tara E. l March 16, 2025

Did you know that African American women are at a significantly higher risk for kidney disease? Many women don’t realize they have kidney problems until the disease is in its later stages—when damage has already been done.

The best way to protect your kidneys is to ask the right questions and take control of your health. Knowing what to ask your doctor whether you’re at risk, experiencing symptoms, or already managing kidney disease can make all the difference.

This guide will walk you through the most important questions to ask at your next checkup so you can advocate for your kidney health.

Listen to the Rooted Will, Rising Advocate Podcast: Protecting Your Kidneys from Kidney Disease

Why Are Black Women at Higher Risk for Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease develops slowly over time, and many of its risk factors—like high blood pressure and diabetes—are more common among African American women. Here’s why:

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Nearly 60% of Black women have high blood pressure, which can strain the kidneys over time.
Diabetes: Black women are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes, one of the leading causes of kidney failure.
Genetics & Family History: Research shows that the APOL1 gene, which is found more frequently in African Americans, may increase the risk of kidney disease.
Health Disparities: Limited access to healthcare, late diagnoses, and medical mistrust can delay treatment and worsen kidney health outcomes.

The good news? Asking the right questions can help you stay ahead of the disease and protect your kidneys.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor About Kidney Health

🩺 1. Am I at risk for kidney disease?

This is a crucial first question, especially if you have:

High blood pressure
Diabetes
A family history of kidney disease
Lupus or other autoimmune diseases

Your doctor can assess your risk and recommend the right screenings based on your health history.

🩺 2. What tests do I need to check my kidney function?

Ask your doctor to test your kidneys regularly if you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of kidney disease. The most common tests include:

Blood Test (eGFR – Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): This measures how well your kidneys filter waste. A low eGFR means your kidneys are struggling.
Urine Test (Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio—ACR): This test checks for protein in the urine, which can be an early sign of kidney disease.
Creatinine Test: This test measures a waste product that healthy kidneys should filter out. High levels may indicate kidney trouble.
Blood Pressure Check: Since high blood pressure damages the kidneys, keeping it under 130/80 mmHg is critical.
Blood Sugar Test (for diabetics): If you have diabetes, keeping your A1C below 7% helps protect your kidneys.

✔️ Action Step: Ask your doctor for a yearly kidney health screening if you have risk factors.

🩺 3. What do my test results mean?

Many doctors will say, “Your results are fine.” But fine isn’t enough—you need to know your numbers! Ask:

What is my eGFR? (A normal eGFR is 90 or above. Below 60 may indicate kidney disease.)
Do I have protein in my urine? (Even small amounts can be a warning sign.)
What is my creatinine level? (High levels could mean reduced kidney function.)
How do my numbers compare to last year? (Tracking changes over time is key!)

✔️ Action Step: Write down your numbers or request a printout of your test results for your records.

🩺 4. What steps should I take to protect my kidneys?

If your test results show early signs of kidney disease, don’t panic—there are many things you can do to slow or prevent progression.

Ask your doctor:

How can I lower my blood pressure? (Lifestyle changes, medication, reducing salt intake)
What is the best diet for my kidneys? (Low-sodium, kidney-friendly foods)
Should I take any medications to protect my kidneys?
How often should I get my kidneys checked?

✔️ Action Step: Make a plan with your doctor and follow up in 3-6 months to track improvements.

🩺 5. Are any of my medications harmful to my kidneys?

Some common medications can damage your kidneys over time, especially if taken in high doses or for long periods. These include:

Painkillers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin) – Can cause kidney damage if overused.
Certain blood pressure medications – Some may harm kidney function if not monitored.
Antibiotics – Some can stress the kidneys, especially in people with existing kidney issues.
Heartburn medications (PPIs like omeprazole, Prilosec) – Linked to kidney disease in long-term use.

✔️ Action Step: Ask your doctor: “Are any of my medications affecting my kidneys? Are there safer alternatives?”

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Kidney Health

Many African American women don’t realize they have kidney disease until it’s too late—but you don’t have to be one of them.

Know your risk.
Get the right tests.
Understand your results.
Make a kidney health plan with your doctor.

📌 Call to Action:
Ask these five key questions at your next doctor’s visit—and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Your kidneys are worth it! 💜

More from Mahogany Speaks to You

Protecting Your Kidneys from Kidney Disease