WHAT IS IT?
Metabolic syndrome is a condition in which multiple risk factors are present simultaneously in the same individual, thereby increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These risk factors include high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist (visceral fat), and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. At the CarE MediC clinics, individuals with metabolic syndrome are systematically monitored through clinical and laboratory tests using state-of-the-art methods, with the ultimate goal of reversing or even eliminating the syndrome.
HOW COMMON IS IT?
The presence of even just one of these factors does not mean that you have metabolic syndrome, but it does mean that your cardiovascular risk score increases. Over time, if more of the above factors are present, the risk of complications increases.
Metabolic syndrome is becoming increasingly common. In the U.S., up to one-third of adults have it. If you have metabolic syndrome or any of its risk factors, it is advisable to make immediate and aggressive lifestyle changes, which may delay or even prevent the onset of serious health problems.