A Call to Action to Help Fight Kidney Failure in At-Risk Communities: American Kidney Fund Urges People to be APOL1 Aware

May 7, 2026

The American Kidney Fund has announced the third annual APOL1-Mediated Kidney Disease Awareness Day, dedicated to educating communities about this rapidly progressing genetic kidney condition that disproportionately affects people of African ancestry. As part of expanded efforts, AKF has launched the APOL1 Coalition, bringing together patient advocates, scientists, industry representatives, and professional organizations to coordinate resources and address priority needs related to the disease. People with two inherited APOL1 gene variants—particularly those who are Black, African American, African, Afro-Caribbean, or Hispanic/Latino—face increased risk of developing this aggressive form of kidney disease that can emerge at young ages.

Who is affected

People of African ancestry (Black, African American, African, Afro-Caribbean populations)
Hispanic/Latino individuals with African ancestry
People with two inherited APOL1 gene variants
Alonzo Mourning (basketball Hall-of-Famer diagnosed with AMKD)
Families of those affected by AMKD
The 1 in 7 Americans living with kidney disease

What action is being taken

AKF is observing the third annual AMKD Awareness Day
The newly established APOL1 Coalition is working to define priority needs, strengthen collaboration, and centralize resources
A special podcast episode of The Kidney Collective is now live featuring LaVarne A. Burton and Alonzo Mourning
LaVarne Burton is providing remarks about AMKD at the National Minority Quality Forum's Annual National Leadership Summit on Health Disparities
AKF is distributing an AMKD Awareness Day Community Toolkit with resources for social media and community organizations
Vertex Pharmaceuticals and AstraZeneca are providing financial support for these initiatives

Why it matters

APOL1-mediated kidney disease progresses more rapidly than many other forms of kidney disease and can develop at young ages, making early awareness and education critical for at-risk populations. The disease disproportionately affects people of African ancestry who have specific genetic variants, yet many remain unaware of their risk. Since the link between APOL1 gene variants and kidney disease was only discovered approximately fifteen years ago, widespread education is essential to help people understand their ancestry-related health risks and take proactive steps to protect their kidney health and that of their families.

What's next

Supporters can download the AMKD Awareness Day Community Toolkit to spread awareness
People can share AMKD Awareness Day graphics at https://socialpresskit.com/amkd using the hashtag #APOL1aware
The APOL1 Coalition will continue its multi-year project to address priority needs related to AMKD
AMKD Awareness Day will continue to be recognized annually on the last Tuesday of April during National Minority Health Month

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint