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

A groundbreaking simulation study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2024 has revealed alarming predictions about the onset of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in individuals with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. The research suggests that people with chronic kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, or both conditions may face elevated CVD risk up to 28 years earlier than those without these health issues.

The study, conducted by researchers at Northwestern University and Boston University School of Medicine, utilized the American Heart Association's PREVENT calculator to estimate the age at which individuals with different risk profiles would reach an elevated CVD risk. This risk is defined as a 7.5% or higher chance of experiencing a heart attack or stroke within the next 10 years.

The findings paint a stark picture of how CKM syndrome can accelerate cardiovascular risk. For individuals with stage 3 chronic kidney disease, the study predicted elevated CVD risk would occur 8 years earlier than those without CKM syndrome. Those with Type 2 diabetes were predicted to reach this risk level 9 to 11 years sooner. Most alarmingly, adults with both conditions were projected to hit elevated risk 26 to 28 years earlier than their healthier counterparts.

Lead study author Vaishnavi Krishnan emphasized the importance of these findings in interpreting combined risk factors and their impact on CVD risk at different ages. The research underscores the need for earlier intervention and more comprehensive risk assessment, particularly for individuals with multiple CKM syndrome components.

The implications of this study are significant for public health and clinical practice. 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, these findings highlight the urgent need for improved primary prevention strategies and earlier risk identification.

Dr. Sadiya S. Khan, co-author of the study and chair of the writing group for the PREVENT equations, noted that while this research is an important step in understanding risk models, further work and guidelines are needed to determine how to apply these findings in clinical settings.

In response to the growing threat of CKM syndrome, the American Heart Association has launched a four-year Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health Initiative. This program aims to improve coordination among specialists, promote best practices, and implement clearer guidelines for CKM syndrome treatment.

As the medical community continues to grapple with the complex interplay of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health, this study serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of early intervention and comprehensive care. It underscores the need for healthcare providers to consider the cumulative impact of multiple risk factors and to take a more proactive approach in managing patients with CKM syndrome components.

While the study's findings are based on simulated populations and require further validation, they provide valuable insights into the potential long-term consequences of CKM syndrome. As research in this area progresses, it may lead to more personalized risk assessments and targeted interventions, ultimately improving cardiovascular outcomes for millions of individuals at risk.