Medical experts from the American Heart Association are calling for increased awareness about cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, a complex health condition that disproportionately impacts women's long-term health outcomes. Recent research indicates that nearly 45% of women ages 20 and older are living with some form of cardiovascular disease, with one in three expected to die from heart-related complications.
The CKM health initiative emphasizes the critical interconnectedness of heart, kidney, and metabolic health factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, blood glucose, and kidney function. Dr. Sadiya S. Khan, a cardiovascular epidemiology expert, stressed that women often experience heart disease differently from men, with unique symptoms that can be overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Key findings reveal that women with Type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease may reach elevated cardiovascular risk 8-9 years earlier than those without these conditions. Particularly concerning is that women with both conditions could potentially accelerate their high-risk trajectory by 26 years, underscoring the importance of early intervention and comprehensive health monitoring.
The initiative highlights several critical health indicators women should track, including maintaining blood pressure below 120/80 mm Hg, managing triglyceride levels under 135 mg/dL, and keeping waist circumference under 35 inches. Pregnancy and menopause are also identified as significant periods that can substantially impact women's long-term cardiovascular health.
Experts also pointed out social factors that uniquely affect women's health, noting that women are historically underrepresented in clinical trials and may face greater barriers in accessing comprehensive healthcare. Dr. Khan emphasized the importance of women advocating for themselves, requesting thorough screenings, and discussing their specific health concerns with medical professionals.
The CKM health initiative represents a significant step toward comprehensive, gender-specific healthcare approaches, encouraging women to understand their individual risk factors and take proactive steps in managing their cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health.
