Tampa, Fla., April 17, 2007 – In keeping with its mission to help patients deal with the physical, emotional and social impact of kidney disease, today the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) announced the newest addition to its Understanding series.  Titled, Understanding Anemia in Kidney Disease, the brochure helps patients understand what anemia means, why it’s important and the most effective treatment methods.

Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. Oxygen acts like fuel for the body. It provides energy for muscles and organs to work. Low oxygen levels cause weakness and fatigue. People with anemia usually do not have enough oxygen going to body organs.

The brochure features symptoms of anemia, ideas on how to manage it and a self assessment test to determine if patients need to talk to their healthcare provider about anemia.

AAKP would like to thank Roche for its generous support of the development and distribution of this brochure. For more information or to order complimentary copies of Understanding Anemia in Kidney Disease, contact AAKP at (800) 749-AAKP. Click here to download the brochure.