American Kidney Fund Hosts Congressional Briefing on Kidney Disease's Growing Toll on the U.S. Workforce

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 12, 2026) – The American Kidney Fund (AKF) will host a Capitol Hill briefing today to examine the growing impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) on the American workforce and the U.S. economy. The briefing takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET in 2261 Rayburn House Office Building. 

Chronic kidney disease is a costly and often overlooked threat to workforce health and productivity. It affects an estimated 11 million workers in the United States and costs American businesses more than $100 billion annually. This briefing will bring together leaders in kidney health, employee benefits, patient advocacy and healthcare strategy to discuss the far-reaching toll of kidney disease, present new economic impact data and explore strategies that can help employers and policymakers improve kidney care delivery, achieve better patient outcomes and reduce costs. 

Speakers include: 

"Kidney disease is not just a public health challenge; it is a deeply personal crisis for millions of people and a serious economic strain on employers, families, and communities across the country," said LaVarne Burton, President and CEO of the American Kidney Fund. "Behind every diagnosis is a person trying to keep working, care for their family and manage a complex disease that too often disrupts every part of life. Recognizing the burden chronic kidney disease places on the workforce and advancing practical solutions are both essential to improving care, supporting patients, lowering costs and creating a better future for families and communities across the country." 

The briefing will underscore the need for greater awareness, earlier detection and more coordinated approaches to kidney care. It will also focus on opportunities for employers and policymakers to address gaps in care and invest in innovative strategies that improve both workforce well-being and business outcomes.