The ABCs of CMK
I bet you've never heard of a major health risk that affects around 80% adults in the U.S. -- Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome (CMK). Well, you are not alone. The American Heart Association says nine out of 10 folks haven't heard of this newly recognized health hazard.
It's a syndrome that progresses from stage 1 -- you're overweight or obese -- to stages 2 and 3, which signal you've developed Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol or chronic kidney disease, and then progresses to stage 4, which means, in addition to the health issues in the previous stages, you've had a heart attack, coronary heart disease or a stroke.
It's the interaction between these risk factors affecting various body systems and organs (that's why it's called a syndrome) that amps up your risk for cardiovascular crises more than having any one of them alone.
But the good news is that you can reverse CMK syndrome by making smart lifestyle changes while receiving appropriate medical treatment for CMK's wide-ranging health challenges.
Step 1: If you have any of the risk factors for CMK -- and especially if you have more than one -- talk with your doctors/specialists about the syndrome and encourage them to work together to create a coherent treatment plan.
Step 2: Decide that your long-term well-being is more important (and more fun) than any immediate indulgence. Retool your nutrition, exercise and stress management habits pronto.
To help you do that, I've got a free newsletter at michaelfroizenmd.substack.com. And for extra support, try the AI coaching program at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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