The Importance of Advocacy in Addressing Health Disparities in Pediatric Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children is a lifelong and life-altering diagnosis. However, the impact of CKD on a child’s life, and the life of that child’s family, is often disproportionately worse in marginalized and minoritized populations. The disproportionate burden of CKD on these populations often leads to kidney health inequities driven by social determinants of health (SDH). There is, therefore, a need for pediatric kidney health professionals to advocate for health policies and systems of care delivery that narrow disparities and promote health equity. Pediatric kidney health professionals have a long history of partnering to promote justice and equity for their patients and community, leveraging their expertise to improve health through advocacy in a variety of domains. This chapter highlights several examples of successful advocacy in pediatric nephrology, which serve as case studies in effectively moving the needle to narrow disparities. Ultimately, future success of these efforts will hinge on the ability of kidney health professionals to partner with patients, families, and communities to advance justice and equity in kidney healthcare.