Study Predicts Earlier Onset of Heart Disease Risk for People with CKM Syndrome

A preliminary study to be presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 reveals that people with chronic kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, or both may face an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) up to 28 years earlier than those without these conditions. The research, which simulated risk profiles for adults aged 30 to 79, used the American Heart Association's PREVENT calculator to estimate the age at which individuals would reach an elevated CVD risk.

The study found that adults with stage 3 chronic kidney disease were predicted to reach elevated CVD risk 8 years earlier than those without the condition. For individuals with Type 2 diabetes, the elevated risk was predicted to occur 9 to 11 years earlier. Most strikingly, adults with both Type 2 diabetes and stage 3 chronic kidney disease were predicted to reach elevated CVD risk 26 years earlier for women and 28 years earlier for men, compared to those without either condition.

These findings underscore the importance of early identification and management of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, which the American Heart Association defines as the interplay of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and metabolic disorders such as Type 2 diabetes and obesity. With nearly half of all U.S. adults living with some form of CVD and one in three having at least three risk factors contributing to CKM syndrome, this research highlights the urgent need for improved primary prevention strategies.

Lead study author Vaishnavi Krishnan emphasized the significance of understanding how age interacts with risk factor levels to optimize CKM health. The study's results provide valuable insights into the combination of risk factors that lead to high predicted CVD risk and at what age they impact risk. This information could help healthcare providers identify at-risk individuals earlier and implement more effective prevention measures.

While the study's strength lies in its comprehensive examination of risk factors across nearly the full adult life course, it is important to note that the results are based on predicted risk calculations using a simulated population. Further research and guidelines will be necessary to determine how to apply these findings in clinical settings and establish appropriate risk thresholds.

In response to the complex health threat posed by CKM syndrome, the American Heart Association has launched a four-year Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health Initiative. This initiative aims to improve coordination among specialists, promote best practices, and implement guidelines and screening recommendations for CKM syndrome treatment. By addressing the interconnected nature of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health, the initiative seeks to enhance patient care and reduce the burden of these chronic conditions on public health.