A significant increase in global kidney disease death rates has underscored the critical relationship between kidney and heart health, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). The organization reports a 24% rise in chronic kidney disease fatalities from 1990 to 2021, with experts emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive, integrated medical approaches.
Researchers have identified a complex interaction between cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic systems, termed cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. Approximately one in three U.S. adults exhibit at least three components of this syndrome, which can dramatically increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Key findings reveal that early kidney damage significantly elevates cardiovascular disease risk. Studies show that three in five people with early-stage kidney disease simultaneously have cardiovascular complications. Dr. Janani Rangaswami, an AHA volunteer, emphasized that kidney disease serves as a powerful risk predictor and addressing it can reduce morbidity and mortality.
The AHA's new Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health Initiative aims to promote interdisciplinary care and earlier detection. Two primary screening tests—urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)—can help identify potential kidney health issues before they become critical.
CKM syndrome progresses through four stages, with the first stage affecting approximately 90% of U.S. adults. These stages range from excess weight and potential insulin resistance to advanced conditions involving heart and kidney disease. Critically, early stages are potentially reversible with proper intervention.
Medical professionals stress the importance of regular health screenings, including monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, body fat, blood sugar, and kidney function. Weight management is particularly crucial, as each 10-pound weight gain can increase the risk of decreased kidney function by up to 30%.
The initiative, supported by healthcare and pharmaceutical sponsors, seeks to develop evidence-based therapies and raise awareness about the intricate connections between metabolic, kidney, and cardiovascular health. By promoting a holistic approach to patient care, researchers hope to improve outcomes and reduce the overwhelming complexity of managing multiple chronic conditions.
