CKM Syndrome and Metabolic Health: Understanding the Link to Cancer Risk

Research published on April 27, 2026, suggests that individuals with advanced cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome may face a significantly higher risk of developing cancer. The study, appearing in the American Heart Association’s peer-reviewed journal Circulation: Population Health and Outcomes, highlights a potential bidirectional relationship between metabolic health and oncology.

CKM syndrome is a multisystem disorder encompassing connected health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, obesity, and diabetes. While the most immediate dangers of the syndrome are typically associated with disability or death from stroke and heart disease, the research indicates that nearly every major organ system is affected, linking the syndrome to dementia, fatty liver disease, and obstructive sleep apnea in addition to cancer.

The Correlation Between CKM Stages and Cancer Risk

Researchers from the University of Tokyo in Japan analyzed national insurance claims data for nearly 1.4 million people to determine their CKM syndrome stage. The staging system ranges from stage 0, representing those with no risk factors, to stage 4, which includes those with cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, stroke, or heart attack.

After tracking participants for approximately 3 ½ years, the researchers found that cancer risk increased most sharply in the later stages of the syndrome. Compared to healthy participants at stage 0, the findings showed:

• Stage 1: 3% higher risk of developing cancer
• Stage 2: 2% higher risk of developing cancer
• Stage 3: 25% higher risk of developing cancer
• Stage 4: 30% higher risk of developing cancer

The data suggests a gradient risk, where the accumulation of risk factors within the CKM framework contributes to the development of various types of cancer.

The study findings suggest that it is important to consider not only cardiovascular disease risk, but also cancer risk in people with CKM syndrome.

Hidehiro Kaneko, M.D., Ph.D., lead author and associate professor in the department of cardiovascular medicine at the University of Tokyo

Understanding the CKM Framework

According to American Heart Association statistics, nearly 9 out of 10 adults in the U.S. Have at least one component of CKM syndrome. These components include reduced kidney function, excess weight, high blood glucose, abnormal cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

The syndrome is characterized by a complex interplay where dysfunction in one system can trigger or worsen dysfunction in others. Dr. Kaneko noted that dysfunction in the cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic systems is independently associated with cancer risk due to shared risk factors.

This research adds to the growing field of cardio-oncology. While it is well established that cancer and its treatments can cause cardiovascular toxicity, this study underscores the concept of reverse cardio-oncology, where cardiovascular disease and its associated risk factors increase the likelihood of cancer.

The study highlights the bidirectional relationship and underscores the concept of reverse cardio-oncology where cardiovascular disease and its risk factors also increase cancer risk. Healthy lifestyle choices potentially impact both conditions.

Tochukwu Okwuosa, D.O., director of cardio-oncology services at Rush University Medical Center