Are You at Risk? Heart Disease Could Strike 28 Years Earlier for People with CKM Syndrome!

DALLAS, Nov. 11, 2024 — A groundbreaking study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 reveals shocking new insights about the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks associated with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. This research highlights that adults suffering from chronic kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes may see significant increases in their CVD risk — up to an astounding 28 years earlier than those without these conditions. The findings of this study are not just alarming; they emphasize the urgent need for heightened awareness and more proactive health measures.

The study utilized simulation models to map out the CVD risk profile for men and women aged 30 to 79, examining the interplay of CKM syndrome components. Key findings indicated that adults with chronic kidney disease would reach a significantly elevated CVD risk eight years earlier than their healthy counterparts. In those with Type 2 diabetes, this risk appeared a decade sooner. But here’s the kicker: women with both conditions face a predicted risk elevation 26 years earlier, while men face a 28-year earlier risk.

Importantly, current guidelines dictate that CVD risk is classified as elevated if there is a 10-year heart attack or stroke risk of 7.5% or higher. CKM syndrome, comprising chronic kidney disease and Type 2 diabetes, raises that risk substantially. This study sheds light on the critical need for early identification and management of at-risk individuals in order to mitigate premature deaths from cardiovascular issues.

Lead study author Vaishnavi Krishnan from Northwestern University emphasized the significance of recognizing risk factors that might otherwise go unnoticed: “People with borderline conditions, such as elevated blood pressure or glucose levels, may appear healthy but are at significant risk. Understanding these nuances could save lives.”

To illustrate the urgency, the study outlined that for those without CKM syndrome, women are expected to reach an elevated CVD risk at age 68, and men at age 63. However, individuals with stage 3 chronic kidney disease see that age drop to just 60 for women and 55 for men. For those with Type 2 diabetes alone, the age falls to 59 for women and 52 for men.

The findings also reveal dire statistics for individuals with both conditions. Their expected elevated risk occurs shockingly earlier, at age 42 for women and 35 for men! This represents a staggering 26 to 28 years younger than the general population without CKM syndrome.

The study has sparked discussions about the pressing need for future guidelines to integrate these findings into clinical practice effectively. A major initiative is already underway: The American Heart Association has launched a four-year Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Health Initiative aimed at improving awareness and treatment strategies for CKM conditions.

With nearly half of all U.S. adults experiencing some form of CVD and approximately one in three possessing at least three contributing risk factors of CKM syndrome, the findings make a strong case for early intervention. The study highlights a crucial turning point in understanding how CKM syndrome elevates CVD risk, thereby empowering patients and healthcare providers to adopt better prevention strategies.

Stay informed and take charge of your cardiovascular health. Early detection and creating personalized health plans could save lives. It's time to prioritize CKM health — you might just be years ahead in averting a heart crisis! Don't wait until it's too late; assess your risk today!