LOS ANGELES, Oct. 20 (Xinhua) -- About nine in 10 U.S. adults have not heard of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, a newly defined health condition that affects nearly 90 percent of U.S. adults, local media reported Monday, citing a recent survey by the American Heart Association (AHA).

Nearly 90 percent of U.S. adults have at least one risk factor for CKM syndrome, such as high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, elevated blood sugar, excess weight and reduced kidney function, AHA said in a news release.

The combination of these risk factors increases the likelihood of heart attack, stroke and heart failure more than any one factor alone, it said.

According to AHA, CKM syndrome is reversible for most people through healthier eating, more physical activity and appropriate medical treatment.

The survey was conducted online in August by The Harris Poll on behalf of AHA among 4,007 U.S. adults.

Only 12 percent of respondents said they had heard of CKM health or CKM syndrome. Meanwhile, 79 percent agreed it is important to learn more about the condition, and 72 percent said they are interested in doing so.

The survey also found that 68 percent of U.S. adults incorrectly believe it is best to manage related conditions one at a time, or are unsure about the best approach.

"The heart, kidney and metabolic systems are connected and, as such, should be treated in a coordinated way," said Eduardo Sanchez, AHA's chief medical officer for prevention. "These results reveal the need to emphasize those connections and help patients understand the importance of collaborative care."