Chronic Kidney Disease Affects More Than 40 Million Americans as Number of Dialysis Treatments Increase, According to DaVita.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- In an effort to raise awareness about the more serious forms of kidney disease during National Kidney Month, DaVita Inc., a leading provider of kidney dialysis services, today noted that the number of people receiving dialysis treatments increased by nearly 95,000 in the United States during 2006. This increase is attributable to the rising number of Americans affected by end-stage renal disease (ESRD), the most serious form of chronic kidney disease.

Today, 20 million Americans have been diagnosed with CKD while another 20 million more are at risk for kidney disease but are unaware of their condition. CKD develops when the kidneys lose most of their ability to remove waste and maintain fluid and chemical balances in the body. ESRD is the most advanced stage of the disease, frequently resulting in kidney failure that requires dialysis treatment. More than 330,000 Americans currently undergo regular dialysis treatment, roughly double the number a decade ago.

"Nearly half of those with kidney disease are unaware that they have it," said Revkah Balingit, RN, DaVita Clinical Educator for Chronic Kidney Disease. "In addition, the growth in the number of people with ESRD is alarming, especially as its onset can largely be prevented. It is critical that all Americans in the high-risk categories for kidney disease get tested and ensure that they are properly caring for one of the most vital organs in their body."

Major causes of kidney disease include diabetes (responsible for about 40 percent of all kidney failure) and high blood pressure (responsible for approximately 25 percent of kidney failure). More than 33 percent of kidney failure patients are African American, while the number of Hispanic patients getting ESRD treatment has increased roughly 52 percent within the past decade.

DaVita is helping to keep the public informed about who may be at risk for the disease and to provide valuable resources to those already affected by the disease. The company is offering community education to raise awareness of these risk factors and to provide information about preventive measures. Those interested are encouraged to call 888-MyKidney to locate a nearby class.

In addition to building awareness and in honor of World Kidney Day, DaVita has developed a unique "Seed of Awareness" program to help support The Kidney TRUST and help touch the lives of those affected by chronic kidney disease. For every "seed" planted by visitors to the DaVita Web during National Kidney Month (March), DaVita will donate $1 to The Kidney TRUST, a 501c3 non-profit whose mission to create a world of hope, health, action and engagement for those affected by chronic kidney disease.

For additional information regarding proper kidney health, resources for those who affected by chronic kidney disease or to make a donation in support Kidney TRUST, please visit www.Davita.com.

About DaVita Inc.

DaVita Inc. is one of the largest providers of dialysis services in the United States, providing dialysis services for those diagnosed with chronic kidney failure and disease. DaVita manages over 1,200 outpatient facilities and acute units in over 800 hospitals located in 42 states and the District of Columbia, serving approximately 100,000 patients. For more information please visit www.DaVita.com.