I am writing to share information about a free screening coming up in Oxford.

I work for the Mississippi Kidney Foundation and March is National Kidney Month. During this month we want to take the opportunity to spread awareness about kidney disease and to share information about a free kidney screening that we will be offering at the Oxford Diagnostic Center on March 30 from 9 a.m. until noon. We call this program REAP (Renal Evaluation and Assessment Program).

Many people may not know that Mississippi ranks among the top in the nation in incidences of kidney disease and African-Americans are four times more likely to develop the disease than whites.

The leading causes of kidney disease are high blood pressure and diabetes which also affects a high number of Mississippians. Therefore, if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of kidney disease, you are at risk and we encourage anyone with these risk factors to attend this free screening.

Tests include blood pressure, blood sugar and urinalysis; blood work includes total cholesterol, lipid panel, complete blood count and a renal function panel.

We will also have nephrologists (kidney specialists) on hand to review results. Don’t miss out on this free event. Call our office at 601-981-3611 or 1-800-232-1592 to make an appointment.

Lynda Richards

Director of Patient Services

Mississippi Kidney Foundation