ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews evidence linking metabolic syndrome with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and discusses the various available management strategies. Despite complex pathophysiology of the lipid abnormalities in metabolic syndrome, it is crucial for clinicians to recognize and manage them effectively in an attempt to reduce increased risks of cardiovascular disease. β-Blocker therapy in patients with metabolic syndrome can also lead to reduction in cardiovascular mortality. Visceral or abdominal obesity is the form of obesity most strongly associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The primary abnormality responsible for the most features of metabolic syndrome-related cardiovascular complications is insulin resistance. The cardiovascular outcomes associated with atherogenic form of dyslipidemia typical in metabolic syndrome patients are much worse, compared to clinical outcomes in patients with isolated elevation of low density lipoprotein-cholesterol. Genetic predisposition most likely contributes to coexistence of insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia with hypertension.
