Essential Facts Women Must Know About Heart, Kidney, and Metabolic Health in 2025

Millions of women worldwide may unknowingly carry risk factors for interconnected conditions affecting the heart, kidneys, and metabolism, which significantly elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death among women. According to experts from the American Heart Association, understanding and managing these interconnected health aspects is crucial.

The interplay between heart, kidney, and metabolic health—often referred to as cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health—is influenced by factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, blood sugar levels, and kidney function. These factors are interconnected; an issue in one area can negatively affect the others, culminating in a condition called CKM syndrome, which is linked to a heightened cardiovascular risk.

The American Heart Association has launched the CKM health initiative to raise awareness about these connections and improve treatment strategies. Key information women should know includes:

1. Recognize Your Main Health Risks
   Nearly 45% of women aged 20 and above live with some form of cardiovascular disease, yet many remain unaware of their personal risk. Heart disease can present differently in women than in men, often involving smaller vessel blockages and symptoms like arm, jaw, or neck pain in addition to chest discomfort.

2. Act Early on Risk Factors
   Experiencing multiple risk factors amplifies heart risk. Women with conditions like type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease are at risk of cardiovascular issues eight to nine years earlier than others. Having both conditions can accelerate this timeline by up to 26 years. Early intervention can significantly improve health outcomes.

3. Understand the Interconnected Risks
   High blood pressure and diabetes are prevalent but often go unnoticed without screening. Regular testing of kidney health through urine and blood tests is vital, even in the absence of symptoms. Maintaining optimal levels of blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, blood sugar, and kidney function can restore balance and reduce disease risk.

4. Pregnancies and Menopause Impact Future Health
   Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes serve as early indicators of future kidney, heart, and metabolic issues. Menopause-related changes, including declining estrogen, increased abdominal fat, and vascular stiffening, also influence long-term health. Early menopause is associated with higher risks.

5. Social and Economic Factors Play a Role
   Sociocultural factors uniquely affect women’s health. Barriers like limited healthcare access, financial constraints, and societal roles can hinder preventive care. Women are often underrepresented in clinical studies, which impacts the accuracy of healthcare guidance and treatment.

Empower yourself by understanding these risks and advocating for thorough screenings and personalized treatment. Including pregnancy history on health records and discussing menopause symptoms with healthcare providers are essential steps. Being proactive and informed can make a significant difference in long-term health outcomes.

(source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-facts-women-heart-kidney-metabolic.html)