FSGS: Knowledge, Community,
and Care Centered on Us

FSGS doesn’t look the same for everyone. Symptoms like swelling and fatigue, response to treatments, and the rate of progression can vary widely from person to person. For many, especially people in historically underrepresented communities who are disproportionately affected by certain genetic forms of the disease, finding clear and relatable information has been a challenge.

Explore FSGS Resources

Discover articles and tools designed to support you through every stage of your FSGS journey—from navigating a new diagnosis and managing daily symptoms like edema to finding peer support and understanding the latest in clinical research.

Because Every FSGS Experience Is Different

FSGS doesn’t look the same for everyone. Scarring in the kidneys can progress at different rates, and symptoms like protein in the urine or high blood pressure can vary widely in intensity. For many, especially in communities of color where genetic factors like the APOL1 gene variant can play a significant role, finding clear, relatable information hasn’t always been easy.

This resource was created to center education, community, and real-world insight. Here, you’ll find resources that explore symptom management, lifestyle adjustments, emotional well-being, and the role of research in expanding future treatment options—so you can make informed decisions about your health and care.

Understanding and Treating the Four Types of FSGS

In the United States, an estimated 37 million adults—about 1 in 10—are living with chronic kidney disease, yet nearly 90% don’t know they have it. Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a...

What You Should Know About Treating FSGS

Robert Sanchez, co-founder of Kidney Forward, discovered that he had Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) after he started feeling off. When he received his diagnosis,...

There is Hope: An Expert’s View on Treating FSGS

FSGS, or Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), is a form of RKD that occurs more frequently in our community, more intentional research and patient education within the Black community....

FSGS: the Rare Kidney Disease You Need to Know About

Often mistaken for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), Rare Kidney Disease (RKD) is a set of uncommon conditions many times caused by genetics or autoimmune conditions. For...

IS IT FSGS OR SOMETHING ELSE?

FSGS symptoms can sometimes look like other kidney conditions, and that can make it harder to know what your body is trying to tell you.

Understanding how common symptoms of FSGS compare to conditions like minimal change disease (MCD) and IgA nephropathy can provide important context regarding patterns like edema (swelling), foamy urine, and fatigue.

If you’ve been noticing ongoing physical changes, learning these differences may help you have more informed conversations with your healthcare provider to see if a specific path of care is a good fit for you.

FSGS: The Essential Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis is a rare kidney disease that affects 7 out of 1 million people, according to the American Kidney Fund, and is...

Create a FSGS Treatment Plan That Works For You or Your Child

You or your child has been diagnosed with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or FSGS—a rare kidney disease that affects how thoroughly your organ filters excess...