90% of Americans at Risk for Newly Defined Health Condition Called CMK Syndrome

CMK syndrome links heart, kidney and metabolic risk factors and the American Heart Association says it’s extremely common in U.S. adults.

90% of U.S. adults are at risk for a newly defined health condition called CMK syndrome, according to the American Heart Association.

CMK syndrome links heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and obesity.

And while a new survey finds 9 in 10 Americans have never heard of it, the American Heart Association says nearly everyone has at least one risk factor.

CMK Syndrome Risk Factors

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• High blood sugar

• Extra weight

• Reduced kidney function

Researchers say when these problems overlap, they can increase the risk for heart attack, stroke and heart failure, and if left untreated can lead to kidney failure, disability and early death.

The AHA chief medical officer for prevention says it’s really common to have heart, kidney and metabolic risk factors at the same time.

But the good news is CMK syndrome is often reversible with lifestyle changes and treatments that focus on

• Eating a heart-healthy diet

• Managing blood sugar and cholesterol

• Treating high blood pressure

• Keeping the kidneys functioning well

The AHA will issue the first-ever guidelines on CKM syndrome in early 2026.

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