CKM Syndrome: A New Paradigm in Heart Disease Prevention

In a compelling conversation, Payal Kohli, MD, sheds light on Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic (CKM) syndrome—a newly defined condition by the American Heart Association that reframes how clinicians assess and manage cardiovascular risk. Encompassing heart disease, kidney disease, and metabolic dysfunction, CKM syndrome introduces a cancer-like staging system (stages 0–4) that allows for earlier identification, more personalized treatment, and integrated care across specialties. Dr. Kohli emphasizes the staggering prevalence of stage 1 or higher CKM—impacting 90% of Americans—and how this unified framework can motivate both providers and patients to act proactively, shifting the focus from reactive treatment to upstream prevention.