6 Things to Know About the Diagnosis 9 in 10 Americans Are About to Get
Key Points:
- Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome (CKM) is a newly official medical condition linking heart, kidney, and metabolic health, with guidelines released June 9 by major health organizations to identify and treat it as an interconnected syndrome.
- Nearly 90% of U.S. adults have at least one CKM risk factor, such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, high blood sugar, excess weight, or reduced kidney function, though many are unaware of the condition.
- CKM is staged from 0 (no risk) to 4 (advanced cardiovascular disease), allowing early detection and intervention to prevent progression to serious heart or kidney disease.
- New screening tests recommended include kidney function measures (eGFR and UACR) and a risk calculator (PREVENT) that integrates heart, kidney, and metabolic factors, alongside assessments of social determinants like food security.
- Treatment guidelines now endorse GLP-1 medications and SGLT2 inhibitors not just for diabetes but also to protect heart and kidney health, representing a significant shift in managing these interconnected conditions.