The following is taken from a memo I received regarding the 
KidneyWatch program.


An estimated one million Americans have Type I insulin-dependent
diabetes.  Of these, up to 40% may develop diabetic nephropathy 
(diabetic kidney failure).  Diabetics experience a decline of kidney
function over a period of years, which may be without symptoms.  
Eventually the kidneys may cease functioning (end stage renal 
disease), and the patient will require dialysis or a transplant.

People with end-stage renal disease have one-fourth to one-fifth 
the life expectancy of the general population, and their care costs 
the US health care system $7.2 billion per year.  KidneyWatch is a
patient awareness program to educate people who may develop
diabetic nephropathy and improve their prognosis.  Anyone interested
in this program should call 1-800-994-9973 for more information.