Governor Kotek Declares September 2025 as Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month in Oregon

September 4 is recognized as PKD Awareness Day – a national effort to raise visibility for polycystic kidney disease and the nearly 700,000 people affected by it.

This year, NW Kidney Council is proud to share some big news: thanks to the leadership of Governor Tina Kotek, September 2025 has been officially proclaimed as Polycystic Kidney Disease Awareness Month in the state of Oregon. Read the proclamation here.

This is more than a ceremonial gesture. It's a meaningful moment in our ongoing work to bring attention to a serious genetic condition that impacts thousands of Oregonians—and millions more around the world. PKD is one of the four leading causes of kidney failure in the United States. It causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys and can lead to significant pain, high blood pressure, and organ failure. Many people living with PKD will eventually need kidney dialysis or a transplant.

Governor Kotek’s proclamation underscores the wide-reaching effects of PKD. In addition to damaging the kidneys, PKD can also affect the liver, pancreas, cardiovascular system, and gastrointestinal system. The proclamation also acknowledges the mental health burden of life-threatening chronic diseases, including anxiety, suffering, and increased risk of depression or suicide.

Importantly, the proclamation recognizes that access to care and treatment remains a challenge, especially for historically underserved populations. It notes that “insurance coverage, gaps in care, and access to necessary treatment continue to be big for underserved communities in America, especially Black and Latinx populations.” Raising awareness is one step toward closing those gaps.

As Governor Kotek affirms, “PKD awareness empowers patients and families to seek diagnosis, support, and appropriate treatment.” We couldn’t agree more.

While NW Kidney Council has successfully championed similar proclamations in the past,  this one feels especially important. It reflects a continued partnership with Oregon’s leadership and a shared commitment to supporting patients and families impacted by chronic kidney disease. We’re incredibly grateful to Governor Kotek for using her voice and office to help elevate this cause.

If you or someone you know is living with PKD, visit pkdcure.org to explore resources, research updates, and ways to get involved. And if you’re an Oregonian, take a moment to celebrate this progress – it’s a reminder that awareness is action, and that state-level advocacy can make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients.