African American Nephrologist

Very few people know that African-Americans have a higher risk of developing kidney disease and progressing to kidney failure compared to other races. Deon Middlebrook, MD, is passionate about being an African-American nephrologist and reaching out to the Black community to teach about the risks and provide high-quality medical care that prevents and treats kidney disease. Call his practice, Deon D. Middlebrook MDPC, or use online booking today to schedule an appointment for a risk assessment or kidney evaluation.

Why should I consult an African-American nephrologist?

As an African-American nephrologist, Dr. Middlebrook is devoted to helping the Black community learn about kidney disease and get the health care they need to live a long life. Without treatment, kidney disease progresses to kidney failure and death.

Dr. Middlebrook also wants you to understand that African-Americans have a higher risk of developing kidney disease than other races. Compared to white people, African-Americans are four times more likely to develop kidney failure. 

People in the Black community also have higher risk for diabetic kidney disease (the top cause of kidney failure) because 1 in 9 African-Americans have diabetes, compared to 1 in 13 white adults.

Though African-Americans may have genetic traits that increase their risk, that issue is still under study. However, disparities in access to medical care, lack of health education, and the limited services available to communities of color significantly contribute to the problem.

How do African-American nephrologists assess my risk for kidney disease?

Assessing your risk is an important step toward preventing kidney disease. Knowing your risks allows Dr. Middlebrook to recommend changes you can make to prevent kidney disease.

The risk factors for kidney disease include:

• Having diabetes (the most common cause of kidney disease)
• Having high blood pressure (the second-leading cause)
• Having a family history of kidney disease or kidney failure
• Being overweight or obese
• Eating foods high in sodium (salt)
• Drinking too much alcohol
• Not getting enough exercise
• Using illegal drugs
• Smoking tobacco products

The last six items in this list show that changing your lifestyle habits can prevent kidney disease. The same changes also help treat kidney disease and protect you from developing high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease.

How do African-American nephrologists prevent and treat kidney disease?

Dr. Middlebrook offers whole-person care customized to meet your individual needs and promote kidney health. When it comes to preventing and treating kidney disease, your most important steps include changing your diet, losing weight, and making other lifestyle changes if necessary.

In addition to creating an individualized lifestyle plan, Dr. Middlebrook provides medical care when needed to take the stress off your kidneys and keep diseases like diabetes and hypertension under control.

Don’t wait until you develop kidney disease symptoms like swollen legs or feet, frequent urination, and dry, itchy skin. Call Deon D. Middlebrook MDPC or request an appointment online today.