Expressing support for the designation of September 2025 as "National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month", and raising awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease.
This is a non-binding House resolution (H. Res. 699) introduced in the 119th Congress by Rep. Cleaver (with Rep. Graves) and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The bill expresses support for designating September 2025 as “National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month.” Its main purpose is to raise public awareness and understanding of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), highlight the disease’s impact on individuals and families, and encourage nationwide activities and ceremonies to promote awareness. The resolution also recognizes the need for more PKD research and endorses the efforts of the PKD Foundation and related patient advocates. As a symbolic, non-appropriations measure, the bill does not establish new programs or funding. Instead, it aims to catalyze public attention, education, and advocacy around PKD and to reinforce support for ongoing research and care improvements.
Key Points
- 1Designation of September 2025 as “National Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month” to raise public awareness and understanding of PKD.
- 2PKD is described as a common, progressive, genetic kidney disorder that can affect other organ systems (cardiovascular, endocrine, hepatic, and gastrointestinal) and is a leading cause of kidney failure; about 600,000 people in the United States are affected.
- 3The bill notes that PKD affects people of all ages, races, ethnicities, and sexes; it also highlights that ~10% of diagnosed individuals have no family history due to spontaneous mutations, and that around 50% experience kidney failure by age 60.
- 4It acknowledges the limited treatments and lack of a cure, the burden on health and finances, and the importance of regular medical care; it also mentions the psychosocial impact, including depression, for those with chronic disease.
- 5The PKD Foundation and its advocates are recognized for research, awareness, education, and support activities, including fundraising events like the annual Walk for PKD; the resolution supports continued public awareness and education efforts.