GLOSSARY

Anemia: A condition characterized by a deficiency of RBCs and/or hemoglobin within the RBCs, or reduced volume of blood. Anemic RBCs cannot function adequately to supply oxygen to the body's tissues.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD, Kidney failure): The inability of the kidneys to excrete wastes, concentrate urine, and conserve electroytes in order to maintain the body's equilibrium. Kidney failure causes rapid accumulation of nitrogenous wastes in the blood. This condition can be acute-sudden but potentially reversible, or chronic-gradual, with few signs and symptoms in the early stages and irreversible.

Diabetes:Type I (insulin-dependent or juvenile-onset diabetes): An autoimmune disease that occurs when the pancreas produces little to no insulin, a hormone necessary for the absorption of glucose into the cells. It is usually genetic and is characterized by high levels of blood glucose. Patients typically regulate their blood glucose through insulin injections.
Type II (insulin-independent or adult-onset diabetes): A disease that occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or does not use insulin properly (insulin resistance). It is often associated with obesity. Patients typically treat this disorder with exercise and dietary modifications.

Hypertension: High blood pressure, or increased prolonged pressure against blood vessel walls. Can cause hardening of the blood vessels and lead to heart disease.