Alarming Surge in Kidney Disease

DALLAS, March 24, 2025 — A shocking statistic from the American Heart Association reveals that global deaths from chronic kidney disease surged by 24% between 1990 and 2021. This alarming trend poses a significant threat to cardiovascular health worldwide. Surprisingly, nearly 90% of adults in the United States who suffer from chronic kidney disease remain unaware of their condition.

“Kidney disease is a potent risk factor, and its management is vital in reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases,” stated Dr. Janani Rangaswami, a professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and an esteemed volunteer for the American Heart Association. She emphasized the intricate relationship between what is known as the “cardio-kidney domain” — the dynamic interplay between the heart and kidneys — and the “cardio-metabolic domain,” which encompasses coexisting conditions labeled as cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome.

Shockingly, about 1 in 3 U.S. adults exhibit at least three components of CKM syndrome, which compels the American Heart Association to establish its Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health Initiative with crucial support from sponsors such as Novo Nordisk, Boehringer Ingelheim, and DaVita. Dr. Rangaswami plays a pivotal role in the initiative's scientific advisory group.

Importance of Collaboration in Healthcare

Collaboration among healthcare experts managing patients with both cardiovascular and kidney ailments is critically important. “These conditions must be approached together, as that reflects the patients’ actual experiences,” explained Dr. Mariell Jessup, Chief Science and Medical Officer at the American Heart Association. “A holistic care strategy is essential to delivering effective treatment and alleviating patients' feelings of being overwhelmed by multiple chronic conditions.”

“Managing kidney disease often involves tackling various other chronic illnesses simultaneously, making collaborative care indispensable,” stated Dr. Amy Schuerman-Gen, Chief Medical Officer for DaVita Integrated Kidney Care. “We are proud to support the American Heart Association in this initiative to improve lives through integrated healthcare.”

Understanding the Heart-Kidney Connection

Research indicates a strong correlation between kidney disease and heart disease. Early signs of kidney damage can significantly elevate the risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. Alarmingly, studies reveal that 3 in 5 individuals with early-stage kidney disease also show symptoms of cardiovascular disease.

To identify kidney problems, two primary tests are regularly used: the Urine Albumin to Creatinine Ratio (UACR) and the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). A UACR of 30 or higher suggests potential kidney issues and correlates with increased cardiovascular risk, while a healthy eGFR should be 90 or above.

The Role of Metabolic Health in CKM Syndrome

Sandy Sommer, senior vice president at Boehringer Ingelheim, noted, “The interconnected nature of cardiovascular and kidney conditions is a pressing global health issue. Promoting early detection and intervention for kidney diseases is crucial in safeguarding heart health and lowering cardiovascular risks.”

Metabolic health plays a vital role in CKM syndrome, as factors like weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar significantly influence both heart and kidney health. Excess body weight can lead to decreased kidney function, with every 10-pound weight increase linked to increased kidney risk by up to 30%. Managing these factors can greatly enhance cardiovascular wellness and reduce the likelihood of chronic diseases.

Importance of Regular Screenings

Routine screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose levels, and kidney health are critical for early detection of CKM syndrome. This is particularly crucial as studies reveal that the mortality risk from cardiovascular disease often surpasses that of chronic kidney disease, especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Stages of CKM Syndrome

CKM syndrome progresses through four distinct stages, each indicating increasing severity. With early-stage intervention, particularly during the first two stages, many serious health issues can potentially be reversed. Stage 1 primarily comprises individuals with excess weight, while Stage 2 encompasses those exhibiting additional metabolic risk factors and possibly chronic kidney disease.

As the syndrome advances into Stage 3, patients may experience signs of disease in the heart and kidneys, often without overt symptoms. Finally, Stage 4 involves those diagnosed with heart disease and potentially kidney failure, facing distressing symptoms such as chest pain, leg swelling, and slow wound healing.

Raising Awareness and Improving Outcomes

“Awareness of the heart-kidney connection is essential for improving outcomes for individuals living with CKM syndrome,” asserted Dr. Anna Windle from Novo Nordisk. “Our collaboration with the American Heart Association is aimed at raising awareness about kidney health and equipping healthcare providers with evidence-based practices that merge kidney and cardiovascular care.”

The initiative seeks to enhance the application of evidence-based therapies, which can significantly reduce the chances of adverse cardiovascular outcomes. Numerous adults in the U.S. stand to gain from an expanding array of therapeutic options designed to manage CKM risk factors and improve overall health.

Conclusion: Call to Action for Individuals

In light of rising kidney disease rates, individuals are urged to be proactive about their health by keeping abreast of their kidney and cardiovascular status. Early intervention might just be the key to mitigating the impacts of CKM syndrome.