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Syndrome Metabolic

What is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a set of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include hypertension, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels.

How to diagnose it?

Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when a person has at least three of the following factors:

Abdominal Obesity: A waist circumference greater than 102 cm in men and 88 cm in women.
Elevated Triglyceride Levels: Blood triglycerides equal to or greater than 150 mg/dL.
Low HDL Cholesterol Levels (the "good"): Less than 40 mg/dL in men and less than 50 mg/dL in women.
Arterial hypertension: A blood pressure equal to or greater than 130/85 mm Hg.
Elevated Fasting Glucose: Blood glucose equal to or greater than 100 mg/dL.

Causes and risk factors

Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes to weight gain and poor glucose regulation.
Unhealthy Diet: A diet high in saturated fats, sugars and processed foods may increase the risk.
Genetics: A family history of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease can predispose a person.
Age: The risk increases with age, especially after age 45.
Insulin Resistance: The body's inability to use insulin effectively is a key factor.

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Consequences of Metabolic Syndrome

If left untreated, metabolic syndrome can lead to serious complications, such as:

Heart diseases: Increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems.
Type 2 diabetes: Increased insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose levels.
Strokes: Increased risk of suffering a stroke.

Prevention and its treatment

Treatment of metabolic syndrome focuses on addressing underlying conditions through lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications. Prevention and treatment strategies include: