What is Metabolic Syndrome?

While writing a prescription for one of my patients, I noted “Metabolic Syndrome” on it. The patient asked for an explanation, prompting me to realize the importance of understanding this condition. So here is the overview.

Metabolic Syndrome is a group of interrelated risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and other serious health issues.

 Criteria for Metabolic Syndrome

A diagnosis of metabolic syndrome is made when an individual has at least three of the following five criteria:

1. Abdominal Obesity: Waist circumference greater than 40 inches (102 cm) in men and 35 inches (88 cm) in women. These measurements may vary based on ethnicity.
2. Elevated Blood Pressure: Blood pressure of 130/85 mmHg or higher, or the use of medication for hypertension.
3. Elevated Fasting Blood Sugar: Fasting glucose levels of 100 mg/dL (5.6 mmol/L) or higher, or the use of medication for hyperglycemia.
4. High Triglyceride Levels: Triglyceride levels of 150 mg/dL (1.7 mmol/L) or higher, or the use of medication for high triglycerides.
5. Low HDL Cholesterol Levels: HDL (good) cholesterol levels less than 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) in men and less than 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) in women, or the use of medication to raise HDL cholesterol.

 Prevalence

Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent, affecting about 25-30% of the adult population worldwide. Its prevalence increases with age, with higher rates observed in people over 60. The condition is becoming more common due to the rising rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

Who is More Susceptible?

. Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after age 45.

.Gender: Men are more likely to develop metabolic syndrome than women until women reach menopause, after which the risk increases for them.

• Ethnicity: Certain ethnic groups, such as South Asians, Hispanic Americans, and African Americans, are more susceptible.
• Family History: A family history of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease increases susceptibility.
• Lifestyle: Individuals with sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits are at higher risk.

Risk Factors

Obesity: Particularly central obesity (excess fat around the abdomen).

Insulin Resistance: The body’s cells become less sensitive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels.

• Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in refined carbohydrates, sugars, and unhealthy fats increase the risk.
• Physical Inactivity: Lack of regular physical activity contributes to obesity and insulin resistance.
• Smoking and Alcohol: Increases inflammation, insulin resistance, and abdominal fat.
• High Blood Pressure: Can damage arteries and lead to cardiovascular disease.
• High Lipid Levels: Particularly high levels of triglycerides and low levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.
• Prevention

Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.

• Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
• Quit Smoking and Alcohol: Quitting smoking and Alcohol lowers the risk of metabolic syndrome and its complications.
• Regular Health Screenings: Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels helps in early detection and management.

Complications of Metabolic Syndrome

 Cardiovascular Disease: Individuals with metabolic syndrome have an increased risk of developing heart disease, including coronary artery disease, heart attacks and stroke, due to the combined effects of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance.

1. Type 2 Diabetes: Metabolic syndrome is strongly associated with the development of type 2 diabetes. The insulin resistance that characterizes metabolic syndrome impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to elevated glucose levels.
2. Stroke: The risk of stroke is heightened due to the increased likelihood of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and hypertension associated with metabolic syndrome.
3. Kidney Disease: Chronic high blood pressure and diabetes, common in metabolic syndrome, can damage the kidneys over time, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure.
4. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Excessive fat accumulation in the liver, common in metabolic syndrome, can lead to NAFLD, which may progress to more serious liver conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis.
5. Sleep Apnea: Metabolic syndrome is linked to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue.
6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with metabolic syndrome are at higher risk for PCOS, a condition characterized by hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, and insulin resistance.
7. Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): Metabolic syndrome can contribute to PAD, a condition where the arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, leading to pain, cramping, and mobility issues.
8. Cognitive Decline: There is emerging evidence suggesting that metabolic syndrome may be associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline and dementia due to the effects of diabetes and cardiovascular disease on brain health.
9. Increased Cancer Risk: Some studies suggest that metabolic syndrome may be associated with an elevated risk of certain cancers, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer, likely due to its impact on insulin levels and inflammation

by: dr zubair saleem