Heart and Kidney Diseases Linked to Higher Cancer Risk: Key Study Findings

Research published on April 27, 2026, indicates that individuals with advanced cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome may face an increased risk of developing cancer.

The study, appearing in the American Heart Association’s peer-reviewed scientific journal Circulation: Population Health and Outcomes, examined the relationship between the stages of CKM syndrome and the subsequent diagnosis of cancer.

Understanding CKM Syndrome

CKM syndrome is a cluster of interconnected health conditions that include heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, obesity, and diabetes.

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

While the most immediate and severe dangers associated with CKM syndrome are disability and death resulting from stroke and heart disease, the condition affects nearly every major organ system in the body.

Study Findings and Cancer Risk

Researchers conducted a study of nearly 1.4 million adults, comparing individuals with no CKM risk factors against those in the early and late stages of the syndrome.

The data revealed that people in the later stages of CKM syndrome were linked with a 25-30% higher risk of cancer compared to those without the risk factors.

Beyond cancer, the research highlights that CKM syndrome is linked to other serious health complications, including obstructive sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, dementia, and kidney failure.

The study findings suggest that We see 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

The findings suggest a need for a broader approach to patient care for those managing metabolic and cardiovascular health, shifting toward a model that recognizes the systemic nature of these conditions.

By identifying the positive association between baseline CKM stages and the risk of a first cancer diagnosis, the research emphasizes the importance of monitoring metabolic health as a potential indicator for other systemic risks.