National High Potassium Awareness Day is celebrated each year on May 1 (5.1). High potassium awareness is important for kidney patients and their caregivers. Most of the extra potassium eaten in the diet is removed by the kidneys. However, when kidney function decreases to a certain level, the body cannot get rid of as much extra potassium.
The “Are You O-K+” campaign utilizes the scientific symbol of potassium “K+” with a popular
message “Are You Ok” to encourage individuals with kidney diseases to know their potassium level.
The safe range for your blood potassium level is considered to be under 5.1 (3.5 -5.0 mEq/L). Levels of 5.1 and higher indicate the onset of hyperkalemia.
National High Potassium Awareness Day is a program of the American Association of Kidney Patients. Informational materials, handouts and more are online at www.areyouok.org.
AAKP will be hosting a FREE virtual educational“Are You O-K+” webinar on Monday, May 1, 2023, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. ET. Register at www.areyouok.org or click here. The webinar will include educational presentations, kidney-friendly cooking tips, patient stories about the impact and importance of potassium management, and much more. The virtual event will be available on demand after May 1.
