Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome: definition, staging, diagnosis and therapeutic management. An expert consensus statement of the Committee of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome of the Hellenic Society of Cardiology.

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome is a complex clinical entity that encompasses health conditions whose prevalence has markedly increased in recent years, such as atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and obesity, which are closely interconnected through shared pathophysiological mechanisms. The need to recognize CKM syndrome arises from its substantial burden on public health, as it is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly in the advanced stages of the disease. Its multifactorial pathophysiology and heterogeneous clinical presentation necessitate a multidisciplinary and holistic approach, including comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and coordinated therapeutic management. involving multiple medical specialties. This expert consensus document, developed under the auspices of the Hellenic Society of Cardiology, represents the first official, national initiative to highlight CKM syndrome as a clinical entity. Its aim is to raise awareness among cardiologists as well as other involved medical specialties, promoting early recognition, appropriate diagnostic approach, and effective therapeutic management of the syndrome.