The Impact of Cardiovascular–Kidney–Metabolic Syndrome on Longevity

A comprehensive study involving over half a million adults has demonstrated that the combined presence of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic disorders—collectively known as cardiovascular–kidney–metabolic (CKM) syndrome—significantly raises the risk of premature death and severe health complications. This research highlights the critical importance of integrated healthcare approaches that address these interconnected conditions simultaneously, rather than treating each disease in isolation.

As chronic diseases continue to escalate worldwide, the findings from this study provide essential insights for healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public. The American Heart Association officially defined CKM syndrome in 2023, emphasizing its role as a predictor of life expectancy and overall health outcomes in real-world settings.

Key findings from the study include:

• Over 70% of participants met criteria for CKM syndrome, with nearly 90% of adults aged 55 and older affected.
• Individuals with CKM syndrome faced a 33% increased risk of death from any cause and were nearly three times more likely to die from cardiovascular disease.
• The risk of developing end-stage kidney disease was over ten times higher among those with CKM syndrome.
• The presence of additional conditions like hypertension, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, metabolic syndrome, or high triglycerides increased the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality by 22% and 37%, respectively.
• Each added component of CKM syndrome shortened life expectancy by about 2.5 years for men and three years for women, with those having all five components potentially losing between 13 to 16 years.

Researchers utilized data from over 515,000 adults in Taiwan, collected between 1996 and 2017, which included physical examinations, laboratory tests, and lifestyle assessments. The long-term follow-up revealed that the clustering of these diseases profoundly impacts mortality, underscoring the need for coordinated, multidisciplinary treatment strategies.

Professors Mai-Szu Wu and Mei-Yi Wu, the study’s lead authors, emphasized the interconnectedness of these health conditions and called for a healthcare system that reflects this reality. Their findings advocate for early intervention and comprehensive disease management to improve life expectancy and quality of life for millions worldwide.

For more details, the full study can be accessed in PLOS Medicine: DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004629.