Growing Threat of CKM Syndrome
Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic (CKM) syndrome is a health condition involving obesity, heart disease, kidney issues, and metabolic disorders like diabetes and hypertension.
It starts with weight gain and leads to severe health risks, including premature death.
In Tamil Nadu, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes are on the rise.
NCDs account for 69% of premature deaths in the state.
Muthu Lakshmi Reddy Scheme for pregnant women addresses low birth weight, a precursor to CKM.
Tamil Nadu spends ₹1,200 crore annually on insurance claims related to CKM outcomes like coronary angioplasty and dialysis.
Rising obesity and NCDs are putting pressure on health budgets and the economy.
Long work hours and night shifts due to globalisation disrupt hormone balance, contributing to unhealthy eating habits, obesity, and CKM.
Way Forward
Shift from fragmented care (separate specialists for each condition) to integrated care where multiple health issues are managed together by a multidisciplinary team.
Public health teaching hospitals could train doctors and expand this model to primary care.
Implement weight and obesity screenings in schools to identify at-risk children early.
Replace high-glycemic rice in the Public Distribution System (PDS) with millets to reduce obesity risk.
Pilot projects to replace common salt with low-sodium salt to reduce hypertension.
Reducing long work hours and night shifts, promoting adequate rest, can improve health outcomes and help reduce CKM syndrome's growth.
Promote lifestyle changes alongside medical interventions to reduce the prevalence of CKM and support healthier communities.
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