Many U.S. Adults Unaware of Common Health Condition

Approximately 90% of U.S. adults have never heard of a health condition that impacts nearly the same percentage of the population. This revelation comes from the American Heart Association, which surveyed around 4,000 individuals about their awareness of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. This newly defined health issue encompasses heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and obesity.

A significant number of adults in the U.S. carry at least one risk factor associated with CKM syndrome—this includes high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, elevated blood sugar, excessive weight, and deteriorating kidney function.

Experts point out that the combination of these risk factors heightens the chances of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure, often more so than any single factor could lead to on its own.

The good news? Many of the risks tied to CKM syndrome can be reversed through healthier eating, increased physical activity, and proper medical interventions.

Dr. Eduardo Sanchez, the chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association, stated, “We want people to know that it’s really normal to have heart, kidney, and metabolic risk factors simultaneously. It’s encouraging that once we clarified the CKM connection, nearly three-quarters of respondents recognized its significance and expressed a desire to learn more.”

The American Heart Association plans to release the first guidelines on CKM syndrome in early 2026.

Key Findings from the Recent Survey:

• Only 12% of U.S. adults had heard of CKM health or CKM syndrome.
• 79% acknowledged the importance of understanding CKM health, and 72% showed interest in learning more.
• 72% were particularly interested in how CKM syndrome is diagnosed and treated.
• 68% of U.S. adults mistakenly believe that managing individual conditions separately is preferable, or were uncertain of the best approach.
• 42% thought that a healthy heart wouldn’t likely be affected by other organ systems or didn’t have a clear opinion.

Dr. Sanchez emphasized, “The heart, kidney, and metabolic systems are interconnected and should be approached in a cohesive manner. These findings highlight the necessity of stressing these connections and helping patients grasp the benefits of collaborative care.”

He added, “CKM health is encompassing of your overall well-being. It’s all about synergy. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, blood sugar, and kidney function can significantly improve your overall health.”

The Harris Poll carried out this survey in August 2025 for the American Heart Association.