Metabolic syndrome is a combination of abnormalities such as obesity, hypertension, high blood sugar and cholesterol levels, which are based on a decrease in tissue sensitivity to insulin-insulin resistance, which, to a large extent, increases the risk of developing cardiovascular pathology, diabetes mellitus Type 2 and a number of other diseases. In fact, it is not a disease per se, but is a collection of a group of risk factors that often occur together, increasing the likelihood of serious illness. 

The term “metabolic syndrome” was introduced relatively recently – in the 80s of the XX century. This is one of the major health problems in many countries around the world. The number of adults suffering from metabolic syndrome reaches 25-30% in some states. It is most widespread in the countries of East Asia, Latin America, the USA, and some European countries.

If earlier metabolic syndrome was considered a disease of older people, now the percentage of young people suffering from it has increased. It is equally common among both men and women.

In addition to cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome leads to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis , a number of cancers, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer. It has also been revealed that the metabolic syndrome is associated with the occurrence of psoriasis and some neuropsychiatric disorders.

Criteria for setting metabolic syndrome:

(Availability of 3 with 5)  

1. increased waist circumference (depending on the country of origin and ethnic group – in the European population ≥80 cm in women and ≥94 cm in men);
2. triglyceride concentration> 1.7 mmol / L (150 mg / dL ) or treatment of hypertriglyceridemia ;
3. the concentration of HDL cholesterol <1.0 mmol / l (40 mg / dl ) in men and <1.3 mmol / l (50 mg / dl ) in women or treatment of the specified lipid disorder;
4. systolic blood pressure ≥130 mm Hg. Art. or diastolic ≥85 mm Hg. Art., or treatment of previously diagnosed arterial hypertension;
5. fasting plasma glucose ≥5.6 mmol / L (100 mg / dL ) or pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes.

Who is at risk?  

• Obese.
• Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
• People over 60 years old.
• Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus or those whose relatives suffer from it.
• People with cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure.
• Women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

The mechanism of development of the metabolic syndrome is not fully understood. Treating patients is a challenging task. In some cases, a healthy lifestyle – proper nutrition, physical activity – reduces the risk of developing serious diseases.