NKF

NKF most commonly refers to the National Kidney Foundation, a United States nonprofit organization devoted to kidney health. The foundation funds medical research, supports patients and families affected by kidney disease, advances education and public awareness, and advocates for health policy that improves kidney care.

Activities conducted by the NKF include funding nephrology research, supporting clinical trials, providing patient resources and support services, and disseminating educational materials to patients and clinicians. It runs public health campaigns to raise awareness of kidney disease risk factors such as diabetes and hypertension and operates community screening programs. The NKF also develops clinical practice guidelines, most notably the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines, in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health.

Organization and funding: The NKF operates through a national network of local affiliates and volunteers, supported by donations, grants, corporate partnerships, and fundraising events such as Kidney Walks. Governance typically includes a board of directors and medical advisers from the nephrology field.

Impact: The NKF's resources, guidelines, and advocacy have influenced patient care and clinician practice in the United States and beyond, with ongoing collaboration with medical societies and healthcare providers to improve kidney health outcomes.

Other uses: The acronym NKF can refer to organizations other than the National Kidney Foundation, depending on context. This article focuses on the NKF related to kidney health.