One such condition is APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD), a genetically driven form of kidney disease caused by variations in the APOL1 gene. This gene has evolved over thousands of years in people with sub-Saharan African ancestry to protect them from infectious parasites that cause African sleeping sickness. Chronic kidney disease affects 37 million Americans, with individuals of African ancestry being four to five times more likely to develop kidney failure than white Americans. By increasing awareness and taking action, we can address the silent epidemic of AMKD in the African ancestry community and improve outcomes for those at risk. Sources:– [Source Article: “Alonzo Mourning: Genes, Kidney Disease and Me”](https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/10/14/alonzo-mourning-genetics-kidney-disease/)– Genetics Home Reference: APOL1 gene

Source: Washington Post October 18, 2023 10:06 UTC