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IgAN Awareness Day 2026
May 14th

 On May 14, 2026, NephCure celebrates IgAN Awareness Day — a dedicated time to raise our voices and drive real progress for those affected by IgA nephropathy (IgAN). IgAN is a rare kidney disease in which a protein called Immunoglobulin A (IgA), part of the body’s immune system, builds up in the kidneys, causing inflammation and overtime, scarring that can lead to kidney failure. For the first time, there are FDA-approved treatments that may help those impacted by IgAN! 

Whether you are living with IgAN, caring for someone who is, or a kidney disease advocate, we encourage you to join our live town hall/panel on May 14th at 4:15pm CST to learn more about what’s next for IgAN, new treatment options, and more. 

What is IgA Nephropathy?

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is a kidney disease in which Immunoglobulin A (IgA) builds up in the kidney. IgA is a protein in the blood and is also part of the immune system. Excess IgA can cause inflammation in the kidney and over time, this leads to scarring in the kidney tissue. The severity of kidney disease caused by IgAN varies from person to person. As IgAN progresses, it reduces the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood.  

Because symptoms can be subtle, many people are diagnosed late, making awareness and early action critical! 

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The IgAN Journey Can be a Difficult One 

Hear the compelling stories of four IgA nephropathy patients from various backgrounds and lifestyles who have navigated the challenges of this condition.

Their experiences highlight the resilience, difficulties, and triumphs that come with managing a rare kidney disease.

Through their voices, we gain a deeper understanding of what it means to live with IgAN, and the importance of awareness, support, and research in improving the lives of those affected.

New Treatments Are Changing What’s Possible

For decades, patients had limited treatment options. There are now multiple FDA-approved treatments for IgAN that target the disease in different ways, from reducing inflammation to lowering protein in the urine. Understanding these options and knowing the questions to ask your doctor can make a meaningful difference in your kidney health. 

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Understanding and Navigating IgAN: An Essential Handbook

Take charge of your journey with NephCure’s comprehensive IgAN Patient Handbook—an essential resource for anyone living with IgA nephropathy. This in-depth guide walks you through every stage, from diagnosis and treatment options to lifestyle guidance and important questions to discuss with your care team. 

Access this valuable tool to better manage your rare kidney disease and feel more confident in your care. Complete the form to download your free copy and start taking control of your health today. 

Get Your Free handbook

Help Spread Awareness

Spread the word about IgAN Awareness Day! Share our downloadable graphics on your social media and use your voice to raise awareness. Be sure to check out the IgAN Awareness Day Toolkit—it’s packed with templates and tips to make posting easy and impactful. Don’t forget to use #NephCureIgAN and tag @NephCure in your posts!

Download Toolkit

Join the IgAN Live: Hear Directly from Experts

This IgAN Awareness Day, be part of the conversation. Join NephCure live from the IgAN Alliance Workshop that will bring together leading researchers, physicians, and patient voices for a live panel event.  

This is your opportunity to listen, learn and ask questions. 

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IgAN Alliance White Paper

Explore the inaugural IgAN Alliance White Paper, Overcoming the Barriers to Diagnosis and Treatment of IgA Nephropathy, a report bringing together patients, caregivers, clinicians, advocacy organizations, and industry leaders to address the biggest challenges facing the IgAN community. This report highlights the urgent need for earlier diagnosis, faster access to kidney biopsy and specialist care, improved treatment access, stronger patient education, and better support for navigating insurance and clinical trials.

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IgAN Alliance 2025 Workshop Summary

The first IgAN Alliance convening brought together a diverse group of stakeholders for an intensive workshop focused on identifying the most significant barriers in IgAN care. 

Discussions highlighted delays in diagnosis, the need for stronger coordination between patients and providers, and ongoing access and evidence gaps that limit early treatment. Addressing these challenges will require collaboration across the community. Click below to view the full report. 

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Wear Your Support

Show your support and spark conversations this IgAN Awareness Day with our limited-edition t-shirt. Every shirt helps raise awareness of IgA nephropathy and supports efforts to improve patient care and research. Designed for comfort and impact, it’s an easy way to stand with the IgAN community. Get yours today and wear your voice proudly. 

IgAN Patient Stories and Resources

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Maria M.

Starting around 2016, Maria was not able to sleep well, not able to lose weight and she would “swell” from time to time; Maria complained about menopause as the culprit…

Informational Documents

Talk to Your Doctor About Your Kidney Health: IgAN

Symptoms of rare kidney diseases are often invisible or not obvious. It is important to talk to your doctor to know the symptoms to look out for and questions to …

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Sean C.

Sean Converse is a 19-year-old Sophomore studying Communications at Saint Anselm College in Goffstown, New Hampshire…

Fact Sheet

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Overview and Symptoms: IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) is an autoimmune disease that affects the filters (glomeruli) of the kidneys. IgA is an immunoglobulin that is part of an individual’s healthy immune …

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Paul B.

Paul Billedo is a 31-year-old Filipino-American who was diagnosed with IGAN in 2018 and it changed his life in many ways. Although he has to make many changes…

Video

Fireside Chat with NORD on the IgAN Patient Assistance Program

Video

IgAN Patient Empowerment | Sean Converse’s Story

Listen to Sean’s story and his journey with IgA Nephropathy and how patient empowerment has shaped his experience.

IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)

Anthony P.

Anthony Pisa was officially diagnosed with IGAN at 51 years old through a kidney biopsy completed in August 2019. His condition presented itself during a high blood pressure episode which …

Thank You to Our IgAN Awareness Day 2026 Sponsors

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Ways to Give

This IgAN Awareness Day, you can make a difference in the future of care. Every donation expands awareness, supports patients and families, and fuels the research needed to change lives. Join us. Give today.

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