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Context

Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic (CKM) Syndrome reflects the interconnected impact of lifestyle, globalization, and urbanization on health. This complex syndrome is increasingly common and often goes undetected until it escalates into more severe health issues affecting multiple organs.

Key Drivers of CKM Syndrome

Lifestyle and Urbanization

CKM Syndrome encompasses conditions such as cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

Changes in dietary habits, reduced physical activity and increased work hours are primary factors that lead to CKM.

The shift toward processed, calorie-dense foods, high in sugar and fats is a global trend driven by the availability and affordability of these foods, particularly in urban areas.

Long work hours and night shifts further disrupt natural body rhythms, leading to stress, hormonal imbalances, and increased risk of CKM.

In India, urbanization has contributed to these shifts, with a rise in sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits.

Globalization’s Influence

As global influences promote convenience foods and extended work hours, CKM risk factors like obesity, hypertension and diabetes increase.

The link between high-salt and high-sugar diets with CKM is evident, as such diets elevate blood pressure and lead to poor metabolic health.

India’s own Public Distribution System (PDS), which historically provided affordable rice, has inadvertently contributed to the national rise in obesity and diabetes. Experts suggest integrating low-glycemic foods, like millets into the PDS to address this.

The Health and Economic Impact

In India, CKM-related diseases like coronary artery disease and kidney failure place a heavy financial burden on both public and private healthcare systems.

Tamil Nadu alone spends nearly ₹1,200 crore annually on CKM-related treatments under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS). Rising insurance claims for treatments such as angioplasty and dialysis reflect the increasing prevalence of CKM.

CKM-related conditions lead to a cycle of productivity loss, as patients require frequent medical visits and face loss of income due to illness.

Integrated Clinics

Experts emphasize integrated care to manage CKM syndrome.

By establishing integrated clinics, where specialists work collaboratively to address diabetes, hypertension, and other related conditions, healthcare systems can better support patients.

These clinics would reduce fragmented care and avoid the pitfalls of treating CKM-related conditions in isolation, such as conflicting medications or redundant visits.

Tackling CKM Syndrome in India

Nationwide screening programs, particularly in high-risk groups, could help identify CKM symptoms early.

States like Tamil Nadu have implemented health programs such as the Muthu Lakshmi Reddy scheme, to support pregnant women and address early health risks in mothers and children. Adding nutrition kits and protein-rich food items like eggs could further prevent future risks of diabetes and hypertension in children.

Reducing sodium intake through low-sodium salt pilot programs in public distribution channels can help lower hypertension rates.

There is a need for balanced work hours to reduce stress and encourage healthier lifestyles. Work cultures that support rest and prioritize mental well-being contribute to both individual and societal health.

About CKM Syndrome 

It is a health condition involving interrelated issues in the cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic systems. It is recognized by experts as a significant public health concern due to its impact on chronic diseases like heart disease, kidney disease and diabetes.

Stages of CKM Syndrome

CKM Syndrome progresses through multiple stages, each representing a more severe level of risk or symptom severity.

Early stages (Stage 1) focus on preventive care, like healthy eating and regular exercise, to manage weight and blood pressure.

In later stages, such as Stage 4, symptoms can include severe heart disease and even kidney failure. Here, individualized treatment becomes essential.

Sources:

Hindu