Women’s CKM Health: Essential Facts

Many women remain unaware of their susceptibility to heart disease, kidney disorders, and metabolic conditions such as diabetes—all of which contribute to cardiovascular disease risk. The American Heart Association’s scientific experts provide these crucial insights about cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) health that every woman should understand.

Heart Disease Claims More Women’s Lives Than Any Other Condition

Nearly half of all women aged 20 and above live with cardiovascular disease, encompassing both heart disease and stroke. This condition proves fatal for one in every three women.

Women often experience different warning signs than men during heart attacks. While chest pain remains the primary indicator, women frequently report additional symptoms including discomfort in their arms, jaw, or neck.

Prevention Through Early Intervention

Women diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes or chronic kidney disease face an accelerated timeline for cardiovascular disease risk—developing elevated danger levels 8-9 years sooner than women without these conditions.

Interconnected Health Factors

The components of CKM syndrome work together as a connected system. These elements include elevated blood pressure, irregular cholesterol levels, excess weight, elevated blood sugar, and compromised kidney function.

Life Stages Impact CKM Health

Pregnancy-related complications create lasting health implications. Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and pregnancy-induced hypertension increase future risks for chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular problems.

Menopause brings significant changes that affect long-term heart and metabolic wellness. Women experience declining estrogen production, increased abdominal fat accumulation, rising cholesterol levels, and changes in blood vessel flexibility and strength. Women entering menopause before age 45 face heightened risks for kidney disease, Type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

External Factors Influence Heart Health

Economic hardship, environmental challenges, and psychological stress correlate with reduced physical activity and poor dietary choices, while increasing the likelihood of obesity and diabetes.

Women must take charge of their health by understanding their personal risk factors and requesting comprehensive screenings that evaluate heart, kidney, and metabolic function during routine medical appointments.

Visit heart.org/myCKMhealth to learn more.