A growing body of evidence suggests a strong connection between overall cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health – often referred to as CKM syndrome – and an increased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss. This emerging understanding highlights the importance of addressing these interconnected health conditions to protect not only heart and kidney function, but also eyesight.
Understanding Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Syndrome
Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome isn’t a single disease, but rather a cluster of interconnected conditions. Defined as a health disorder attributable to the connections among obesity, diabetes, chronic kidney disease (CKD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD), it encompasses a wide range of issues including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, coronary heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. Essentially, it describes individuals at risk for, or already living with, these overlapping health challenges.
The American Heart Association recognizes the significance of CKM syndrome, noting that roughly three out of four adults in the United States have reversible CKM syndrome. The Association launched a four-year CKM Health Initiative in , building on a presidential advisory that formally defined the syndrome. This initiative aims to improve integrated, whole-person care for these conditions, focusing on care coordination and empowering patients to actively manage their health.
The Link Between CKM and Vision Loss
Recent research indicates that worsening cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic health may directly threaten vision. Specifically, individuals with this syndrome may face an increased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD). While the precise mechanisms underlying this connection are still being investigated, the association is becoming increasingly clear.
This isn’t a new observation. Data from shows a strong relationship between cardiovascular health and eye health, with adults experiencing vision impairment (VI) demonstrating a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to those without VI. This bidirectional relationship – where cardiovascular issues can contribute to vision problems, and vice versa – underscores the need for a holistic approach to healthcare.
Why is this connection important?
Traditionally, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and obesity have often been treated as separate entities. However, the concept of CKM syndrome emphasizes that these conditions frequently coexist and influence one another. This fragmented approach to care can lead to missed diagnoses, delayed treatment, and worsening outcomes. In the later stages, CKM syndrome can progress to serious complications like heart failure, kidney failure, stroke, and even loss of life.
The American Heart Association highlights that recognizing CKM as a connected syndrome allows for a shift towards earlier detection, coordinated treatment, and improved outcomes for the more than 89 million Americans currently at risk. This coordinated approach is crucial, as groundbreaking new therapies exist, but their benefits are often limited by fragmented care systems.
Risk Factors and Prevalence
The rise in CKM syndrome is linked to the increasing prevalence of key modifiable risk factors since . These include overweight and obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. These risk factors have not only increased in number but also show evidence of accelerating, further contributing to the growing burden of CKM syndrome.
Looking Ahead
The American Heart Association’s CKM Health Initiative is focused on advancing integrated care for cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic conditions. The initiative is designed to benefit patients, communities, and healthcare professionals alike, with a particular emphasis on improving care coordination and equipping patients with the tools they need to actively participate in their own health journey.
The growing awareness of the link between CKM syndrome and vision loss reinforces the importance of proactive health management. Addressing risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, alongside regular monitoring of both cardiovascular and kidney function, may play a crucial role in preserving vision and overall well-being.
