National Kidney Day

Cheerful woman holding a heart-shaped kidney plushie, wearing a nurse uniform, hospital setting. . — National kidney day illustration

Hey there, kidney enthusiasts! Get ready to celebrate National Kidney Day, a day filled with love for our favorite bean-shaped organ. Whether you're a nephrologist, a kidney patient, or just someone who appreciates the hard work our kidneys do, this special day is all about raising awareness and showing some TLC to these vital organs.

When is Kidney Day?

It's national kidney day on the 12th March.

The History of National Kidney Day

Did you know that National Kidney Day has been celebrated since 2006? It was created by the American Society of Nephrology and the National Kidney Foundation to educate people about the importance of kidney health. The first National Kidney Day was observed on April 1st, and it has since been celebrated on the second Thursday of March each year.

This day aims to spread the word about chronic kidney disease, promote early detection and prevention, and encourage people to take care of their kidneys. It's a time to recognize the millions of people around the world who suffer from kidney disease and to support those who have undergone kidney transplants.

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Kidney Day

Looking for ways to show your kidneys some love? Here are a few ideas:

Host a kidney-friendly potluck with your loved ones. Share delicious and nutritious recipes that are easy on the kidneys.
Organize a sports event or challenge to promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle. Just be sure to stay hydrated, your kidneys will thank you!
Take a moment to remember those who have lost their lives due to kidney disease. Light a candle or participate in a virtual gathering to honor their memory.

Remember, taking care of your kidneys doesn't have to be a dull affair. You can make it fun and memorable, all while spreading awareness about kidney health!

History behind the term 'Kidney'

1550 BC

The Fleshy Filter

The term 'kidney' has its origins in ancient Egypt around 1550 BC. At that time, ancient Egyptians believed that the kidneys were the organs responsible for removing impurities from the blood. This belief led to the term 'kidney' being derived from the Old English word 'cwiðan', which means 'to separate' or 'to sift'. Thus, the kidneys were seen as the body's fleshy filters.

1541

The Naming of the Kidneys

In 1541, the term 'kidney' was first mentioned by anatomist and physician Andreas Vesalius. He used the Latin word 'renes' to describe these bean-shaped organs located in the back of the abdominal cavity. This Latin term later evolved into 'kidney' in English.

400 BC

Greek Naming

In ancient Greece, around 400 BC, the term 'kidney' was further refined and developed. Greek anatomist Herophilus is credited with using the Greek word 'nephros' to refer to the kidneys. This word not only represented the organ itself but also delved into its function. Interestingly, the term 'nephros' is still used in modern medical terminology, such as 'nephrology', the branch of medicine focusing on kidney-related health.

1664

The Function of the Kidneys Revealed

In 1664, English physician Thomas Willis made significant discoveries about the function of the kidneys. He found that the kidneys filter waste products from the blood, produce urine, and help maintain the balance of electrolytes in the body. Willis's findings laid the foundation for understanding the vital role of the kidneys in human physiology.

1827

Anatomy and Structure of Kidneys Studied

In 1827, Scottish surgeon and anatomist Alexander Monro published his renowned work 'The Anatomy of the Glands.' In this book, he provided detailed insights into the structure and anatomical features of various glands, including the kidneys. Monro's detailed studies contributed to a better understanding of the kidneys and their complex internal organization.

13th Century AD

French Influence

During the 13th century AD, French physicians made significant contributions to the study of anatomy, and this had an impact on the term 'kidney'. French anatomist Guillaume de Salicet introduced the term 'reins' for the kidneys. This French word was derived from the Latin 'renes', and it eventually found its way into the English language as 'renal', which pertains to anything related to the kidneys.

16th Century AD

Modern English Usage

The term 'kidney' as we know it today came into widespread use during the 16th century AD. With the development of the English language, the word 'kidney' was adopted to replace the previously used terms like 'reins' and 'nephros'. It became the accepted and commonly used term in English medical literature and everyday language, referring to the vital organ responsible for waste filtration, water balance, and myriad other functions.

1900

Kidneys and Urinary System Research Advances

Around 1900, significant advances were made in kidney research and the understanding of the urinary system. Researchers such as William Bowman and Ludwig Rehn demonstrated the intricate processes involved in kidney function, including the filtration of blood and the reabsorption of essential substances. These groundbreaking studies formed the basis for modern nephrology (the study of the kidneys).

1960

Kidney Transplants Revolutionize Medicine

In the 1960s, kidney transplantation emerged as a groundbreaking medical procedure. In 1963, American surgeon Dr. Joseph Murray performed the first successful kidney transplant between identical twins, marking a major milestone in organ transplantation. This breakthrough opened new possibilities for treating end-stage kidney disease and revolutionized the field of transplantation medicine.

2000

Advancements in Dialysis Technology

Since the early 2000s, significant advancements have been made in dialysis technology. Hemodialysis, a common method of artificial blood purification for individuals with kidney failure, has seen improvements in efficiency, safety, and patient comfort. Development of portable dialysis machines has also allowed greater flexibility for patients to receive treatment in various settings.

Did you know?

Did you know that ancient Egyptians believed the kidneys were the seat of emotions and thoughts? They even used to remove the kidneys during the mummification process, thinking they were preserving the person's intelligence and feelings. Thankfully, we now know better!