What is CKM syndrome? Severity, symptoms, and other details about the condition that affects 90% of American adults

Doctors in the United States are sounding the alarm because a recently discovered health condition called cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome now affects almost all American adults. The American Heart Association (AHA) reported in October 2025 that about 240 million adults have at least one health problem associated with CKM, including high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or kidney disease.

What shocked experts was that 88% of adults surveyed said they had never heard of CKM syndrome. Health officials fear that lack of awareness will worsen the situation nationwide.

What is CKM syndrome?

CKM syndrome, short for cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic syndrome, is a medical condition that describes how heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic problems such as diabetes interact. The American Heart Association officially named the condition in October 2023 to help doctors treat these diseases as one problem rather than separate problems.

Hospitals such as the Cleveland Clinic and Mass General Brigham describe CKM as a “full circuit disorder” because poor function in one system can cause damage in another. This ongoing cycle can lead to serious health deterioration in the long term.

According to AhaDamage in one area can worsen conditions in all three systems, putting people at high risk of developing CKM.

Is CKM syndrome fatal?

CKM itself does not directly kill but increases the likelihood of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure — the leading causes of death in the United States. Johns Hopkins Medicine found that people with diabetes are four times more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, one of the key findings of CKM.

The American Heart Association warns that when multiple risk factors coexist, they double risk levels. Cardiologist Dr. Nidhi Kumar told CBS New York that chronic diseases associated with CKM are now among the leading causes of death and disability across the country.

Symptoms of CKM syndrome

The symptoms of CKM vary because it develops through several systems. The Cleveland Clinic lists common warning signs as:

• High blood pressure
• Abnormal cholesterol levels
• High blood sugar or insulin resistance
• Overweight or obesity
• Fatigue and poor kidney function
• Swelling of the hands, feet, or face
• Shortness of breath or chest pressure

Doctors classify CKM into five stages, ranging from no obvious risk (stage 0) to severe heart disease with symptoms (stage 4).

Who are most at risk?

Data from the American Heart Association and the American Kidney Fund show that older people face the greatest risks. Black Americans and those between the ages of 20 and 44 also show greater vulnerability to obesity and diabetes. Sedentary habits, poor diet, and family history increase the chance of developing CKM.

The American Heart Association notes that these groups face higher rates of serious illness and require early screening to prevent complications.

Is CKM syndrome curable?

CKM syndrome cannot be cured, but it can be managed or reversed with early action. The American Heart Association said three out of four adults can reverse CKM with medical care and lifestyle modifications.

Recommended steps include balanced meals, regular exercise, and careful monitoring of blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol. Dr Sanchez urged people to check their health numbers regularly because early intervention can stop further damage.

How to prevent CKM syndrome

Experts say that prevention depends on healthy daily habits. Eating more vegetables, fruits and whole grains while reducing salt, sugar and processed foods helps protect vital organs. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight reduce the risk.

Doctors also stress routine checks for cholesterol, blood sugar, and kidney function. to avoid smoking Limiting alcohol intake can relieve stress on the heart and metabolic systems.

The American Heart Association reports that most adults can control CKM with diet, exercise, and medical guidance — a reminder that prevention remains the strongest defense against this widespread condition.

Originally published on IB Times UK