The American Heart Association (AHA) has introduced the concept of Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) syndrome, which includes kidney disease in the interconnected web of chronic health conditions alongside cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. The AHA believes that integrating care for these related diseases can lead to better prevention, intervention, and treatment. CKM affects numerous major organs, with the cardiovascular system being most significantly impacted. According to the AHA, one in three U.S. adults have three or more risk factors contributing to these health conditions.
The AHA’s classification outlines four stages of CKM, which can help physicians and patients understand their risks and the appropriate therapies. The AHA is also calling for an update to the standard assessment tool for cardiovascular risk to include measures of kidney function, type 2 diabetes control, and social determinants of health.
