WHEREAS, Washington State is the birthplace for long-term dialysis treatment for people with kidney disease; and
     WHEREAS, According to the Northwest Kidney Centers, more than 20 million Americans, one in nine adults, have chronic kidney disease; and
     WHEREAS, Globally, more than 500 million individuals have some degree of chronic kidney disease; and
     WHEREAS, The International Federation of Kidney Foundations and the International Society of Nephrology have jointly declared March 9, 2006, as World Kidney Day in an international effort to address treatment and prevention of kidney and cardiovascular disease; and
     WHEREAS, When individuals are diagnosed, they are too often treated suboptimally or not at all, and in most parts of the world, once kidney failure occurs, patients do not have access to treatment or transplantation and simply die; and
     WHEREAS, High risk groups include those with diabetes, hypertension, and family history of kidney disease; and
     WHEREAS, African Americans, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, Native Americans, and seniors are at an increased risk; and
     WHEREAS, Early detection can help prevent the progression of kidney disease to kidney failure. The earlier kidney disease is detected, the better the chance of (1) slowing or stopping its progression and (2) avoiding long hospital stays and dialysis; and
     WHEREAS, The public health mandate is clear that detection and prevention are the most cost-effective methods to address chronic kidney disease and its impact on diabetes and cardiovascular disease;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives observe March 9, 2006, as World Kidney Day and encourage increased awareness of kidney disease.