ABSTRACT
Metabolic syndrome is characterized by concurrent risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This include dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension, which are all related to insulin resistance. Metabolic syndrome is provoked by obesity, especially when there is intraabdominal fat accumulation and a large waist circumference. It doubles the risks for cardiovascular disease. This syndrome is increasing in prevalence in Western and Asian countries, especially in developing areas. This is a serious concern, since the presence of metabolic syndrome makes a person five times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Warning signs of metabolic syndrome include tiredness – especially after eating – an inability to focus on thoughts, and acanthosis nigricans. Higher serum uric acid levels are related to metabolic syndrome, and are also independent risk factors for diabetes. Additional names for metabolic syndrome include insulin-resistant syndrome and cardiometabolic syndrome. Reversal of the syndrome involves dietary and exercise changes, and often, medications, which can reduce cardiovascular and diabetes risks, greatly improving and lengthening the lives of affected patients.
