A research letter published in JAMA reveals significant insights into the stages of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic syndrome among U.S. adults over nearly a decade.

The research results showed that nearly 90% of U.S. adults are in stage 1 or higher of CKM syndrome, and 15% are in advanced stages (3 and 4). The syndrome was categorized into 5 stages from 0 (no risk factors) to 4 (established CVD). There was no significant improvement in the prevalence of these stages over a decade. 

These interrelated disorders, which affect heart, kidney, and metabolic health, intertwine pathologically and were the leading causes of death in 2021.

Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), researchers analyzed a sample representative of the national population, incorporating physical exams and laboratory measurements. The study, which spanned from 2011 to March 2020, revealed findings about cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome.

The study highlighted demographic disparities, with older adults, men, and Black adults being at higher risk for advanced stages of CKM syndrome. 

The investigators noted that established CVD, used to define stages 3 and 4, relied on self-reported data, which might underestimate the actual figures. Despite these limitations, the findings underscore the widespread impact of poor CKM health and the necessity for targeted health care interventions to address these disparities, they added.

The research underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and improved health care strategies to combat the high prevalence and lack of progress in addressing CKM health issues in the U.S. population, the investigators concluded.

Dr. Aggarwal received grants and consulting fees, while Dr. Vaduganathan has ties to various pharmaceutical firms and clinical trials outside this study.