Kidney disease and Indigenous Peoples

A Silent and Disproportionate Burden

Kidney disease disproportionately affects Indigenous Peoples in Canada. While this reality is increasingly well documented, the challenges faced by patients extend beyond the medical sphere and raise important issues related to accessibility, equity and proximity of care.

In Kahnawà:ke, as in many First Nations communities, the need for kidney care services is significant, and solutions must take into account the cultural, geographic and social realities unique to the population.

A Higher Risk of Developing Kidney Disease

In Canada, kidney disease disproportionately affects First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Studies show that these populations are three to five times more likely to develop chronic kidney disease.

This situation is closely linked to the prevalence of diabetes and high blood pressure, two major risk factors for chronic kidney disease. Researchers also highlight the impact of the social determinants of health and the challenges in accessing care faced by many Indigenous communities.

When Access to Care Becomes an Additional Challenge

For people living with advanced kidney disease, the challenges do not end with a diagnosis.

In many communities, specialized treatment is only available outside the territory, requiring patients to travel long distances on a regular basis. These repeated journeys can place a heavy burden on people who are already weakened by the disease, particularly when treatments or appointments are required several times a week.

In addition to these constraints, language and cultural barriers can sometimes complicate communication with health care teams and make the care experience more challenging, particularly for older patients.

The Importance of a Community-Based Approach

Improving kidney health in Indigenous communities requires culturally safe approaches, a deeper understanding of local realities, and support tailored to the needs of each community.

Bringing nephrology services closer to patients is an important step in this direction. Recently, the Kateri Memorial Hospital Centre (KMHC) in Kahnawà:ke welcomed Dr. Dominique Dupuis, a nephrologist who was already practising in Châteauguay. Her presence strengthens efforts in prevention, follow-up care and patient support before the disease progresses to a stage requiring dialysis.

Bringing Dialysis Closer to Home in Kahnawà:ke

For Nias Bordeau, who has been undergoing dialysis for more than 26 years, one of the community's most pressing needs remains the establishment of a local dialysis service.

Currently, many patients must travel to Châteauguay to receive treatment, a situation that can become particularly difficult during the winter months.

"We need a dialysis service here. In winter, it's very difficult for patients," he explains.

The Elder points out that many people must leave home early in the morning, contend with challenging road conditions and spend a large portion of their day traveling to and from treatment. For patients who are often older, these repeated trips represent an additional physical and emotional burden.

Over the years, he and other community members have taken numerous steps to advocate for a local dialysis service that would allow patients to receive treatment closer to their families and support networks.

Better Understanding for Better Action

Statistics clearly show that Indigenous Peoples continue to bear a disproportionate burden of kidney disease. Behind these numbers are individuals, families and communities seeking concrete solutions to improve access to care and enhance quality of life for patients.

How Can You Help?

Understanding the risk factors, recognizing the signs of kidney disease and learning about available resources can make a real difference. Those interested in supporting people affected by kidney disease can also contribute to the Kidney Foundation of Canada's awareness and fundraising initiatives. Donations to the Kahnawà:ke Kidney Walk will continue to be accepted until the end of 2026. To contribute, visit the event's official website: Kahnawà:ke - 2026 Quebec Kidney Walk