METABOLIC SYNDROME COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF CANCER! New study reveals worrying connection

By Agustin Miller

A recent study has revealed that cardio-renal-metabolic (CRM) syndrome not only increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, but may also increase the risk of cancer. Published in the journal Circulation: Population Health and Outcomes, the study shows that people with this syndrome are up to 30% more likely to develop cancer.

CRM syndrome and its impact

CRM syndrome is a complex interaction between the cardiovascular, renal and metabolic systems, where dysfunction in one area can trigger problems in others. It is estimated that nearly 9 in 10 adults in the US have at least one component of this syndrome, which includes hypertension, abnormal cholesterol, high blood sugar, excess weight, and reduced kidney function.

The researchers, led by Dr. Hidehiro Kaneko of the University of Tokyo, analyzed data from 1.4 million people in Japan. The results were conclusive: the cancer risk increases significantly with the severity of CRM syndrome. People in advanced stages of the syndrome are at risk of cancer up to 30% higher.

Public health consequences

The study highlights the importance of considering cancer risk along with cardiovascular risk in people with CRM syndrome. According to Dr. Tochukwu Okwuosa, director of cardio-oncology services at Rush University Medical Center, healthy lifestyle choices can impact both conditions, which are the leading causes of death in the United States.

The CRM syndrome staging framework could be a useful tool to identify high-risk individuals for possible screenings and evaluations of cancer. This is especially relevant given that CRM syndrome is also linked to kidney failure, dementia, fatty liver disease, and sleep apnea.

A call to action

Research suggests that healthy behaviors that prevent heart diseases and kidneys could also protect against cancer. The American Heart Association offers more information on how to manage CRM syndrome and reduce risks associates.

This study highlights the relationship bidirectional between cardiovascular diseases and cancer, suggesting that the accumulation of risk factors within the framework of CRM syndrome may contribute to the development of several types of cancer. Adopt a lifestyle healthy could be key to reduce these risks.