High blood pressure can trigger kidney failure.

• Position: Special Newsletter Edition: Your Health

High blood pressure is one of the most common conditions that severely can harm the kidneys. Uncontrolled, it is the second leading cause of chronic kidney failure in the U.S. Severe high blood pressure causes kidney malfunction in a relatively short period of time, but even mild forms can harm kidneys over several years, with no symptoms evident until severe damage already has occurred. To increase public awareness about high blood pressure and kidney disease, the National Kidney Foundation stresses these 10 points:

1. At least 58,000,000 Americans have elevated blood pressures requiring treatment with drugs or constant monitoring; about 15% are not even aware that they have high blood pressure.

2. Blood pressures of 140/90 or more are considered high for adults. For those 65 or older, 160/90 or more are considered unhealthy. High blood pressure should not be diagnosed on the basis of a single reading. Initial elevated readings should be confirmed on at least two follow-up visits.

3. In 90% of the cases, no specific cause is identified, though certain individuals have a greater risk of developing high blood pressure, such as older persons, those with a family history of hypertension, people who are overweight, and African-Americans. High blood pressure is the leading cause of kidney failure among blacks.

4. Elevated blood pressure often produces no symptoms at all, although some people may experience dizziness, headaches, or nosebleeds. It is important to have regular checkups to detect high blood pressure and to follow a physician's prescribed treatment faithfully if hypertension is diagnosed.

5. High blood pressure can affect anyone at any age, even children, although it is less common. Regular high blood pressure checkups should begin in childhood and continue throughout life.

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