Millions Unaware of Non-Cardiac Heart Risks

Diabetes and kidney disease are major risk factors for heart disease, yet many cases are undiagnosed.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A new report highlights that heart health and heart disease risk go beyond just the heart itself. Diabetes and kidney disease are major risk factors for heart disease, yet many cases of these conditions are undiagnosed. Regular screening of connected health factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose, waist circumference, and kidney function, along with appropriate treatment when needed, can help prevent heart disease.

Why it matters

This report underscores the interconnected nature of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic health, known as 'CKM syndrome.' Having one of these conditions often increases the likelihood of developing the others due to shared risk factors. However, many people are unaware of this connection and the importance of comprehensive screening to catch problems early, as approximately 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable.

The details

According to the American Heart Association's new 2026 statistics update, almost 1 in 4 U.S. adults with diabetes are unaware they have it. Additionally, up to 9 in 10 adults with chronic kidney disease do not know they have it. Screening for kidney disease in particular could be improved, as two-thirds of patients with high blood pressure or diabetes are not aware they also have kidney disease due to lack of uACR testing. The Association recommends two screening tests for kidney health - the uACR urine test and eGFR blood test.

  • The American Heart Association's new 2026 statistics update was recently released.
  • A consumer survey done last fall suggests that most people don't realize their heart, kidney and metabolic health are connected.

The players

American Heart Association

The world's leading nonprofit organization focused on changing the future of health for all, championing better heart and brain health for more than 100 years.

Centers for Disease Control

The national public health institute in the United States.

Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA

Volunteer president of the American Heart Association, executive director of the Katz Institute for Women's Health, and senior vice president of women's health at Northwell Health in New York City.

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What they’re saying

“We are encouraging people to become aware of the connection between conditions so they and their health care team can think about their overall health beyond individual conditions.”

— Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, Volunteer president of the American Heart Association (Mirage News)

“Due to the current risk factor rates, everyone could benefit from being screened this way.”

— Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, Volunteer president of the American Heart Association (Mirage News)

What’s next

The American Heart Association's Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health Initiative is enrolling 150 health care sites across 15 U.S. regions to participate in learning and sharing best practices for interdisciplinary care of CKM syndrome, expected to impact the care of more than a quarter-million patients.

The takeaway

This report highlights the critical need for comprehensive health screening and awareness of the interconnected nature of cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic conditions. By catching problems early through regular testing and appropriate treatment, individuals can take proactive steps to prevent serious heart disease and other complications.