Written by Jane Pugh on 20 February 2026. Posted in Latest news.

World Kidney Day at 20: Raising Awareness. Driving Change.

On 12 March 2026, we mark 20 years of World Kidney Day, the global campaign highlighting the incredible role kidneys play in keeping us alive, and the huge impact when they don’t work properly.

Kidney disease affects 1 in 10 people worldwide —over 7 million in the UK alone. Cases are rising so fast, kidney disease could cost the UK economy £13.9 billion a year by 2033, yet it remains under-recognised. That’s why PKD Charity and charity partners are urging the UK Government to implement a national kidney disease strategy.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), the fourth leading cause of kidney failure, affects 12 million people globally. It can strike anyone—babies, children, adults in their prime—and often runs through entire families. Sadly, nany people with kidney disease suffer in silence, facing stigma, isolation, financial strain, and limited work opportunities.

Let’s make a difference together!

Help spread the word today! Click the above images to download and share on your social channels.

Get All Your World Kidney Day Supporter Materials

This World Kidney Day, our campaign "Don’t Kid Yourself" hits the streets. We’re asking the public what they know about kidney disease, and also sharing insights from those on the frontlines: a leading kidney consultant and GP. They reveal common misunderstandings, overlooked early symptoms, and what everyone should really know about kidney health.

Join us and our charity partners to bust myths, raise awareness, and support people living with kidney disease.

How Can You Help?

Support us on social media – Share our posts on Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Download & Share World Kidney Day Materials – Visit World Kidney Day Uk to access social media posts, kidney facts, banners, colouring sheets, and more.
Spread Kidney Facts – Educate your friends and colleagues about kidney disease and its symptoms.
Share our Symptom Checklist – Pass it on to anyone who might be at risk.
Share Your Story – Use the Kidney Day photo editor to create a personalised image and share your myth-busting story.
Host an Event – Download printable materials to organise your own kidney awareness event.
Educate in the Workplace – Display our "Don’t Kid Yourself" poster in your office or community spaces to raise awareness.

And don't forget to tag us:

• On Facebook, tag @worldkidneydayuk and @pkdcharity
• On X, tag @kidneydayuk and @pkdcharity
• On Instagram, tag @worldkidneydayuk and @pkdcharity

Use the hashtags #KidneysMatter and #WorldKidneyDay when you share! Let’s flood social media with kidney awareness and make some noise!

Shine a Light on Kidney Disease

At 7pm on World Kidney Day (Thursday 12 March), shine a light in support of kidney health. Light a candle, switch on a torch, or illuminate your home in honour of the incredible kidney community: our amazing patients, clinicians, dedicated supporters, and in memory of those we’ve lost.

Join us in raising awareness and showing solidarity. Keep an eye on our posts on the day and share them with your followers to help spread the light even further. Want to get involved early? Download your resources today by clicking the images below and be ready to shine.