Alternative Names
Insulin resistance syndrome; Syndrome X
Definition of Metabolic syndrome
Metabolic syndrome is a name for a group of risk factors that occur together and increase the risk for , , and .
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Metabolic syndrome is becoming more and more common in the United States. Researchers are not sure whether the syndrome is due to one single cause, but all of the syndrome’s risk factors are related to obesity.
Signs and tests
According to the American Heart Association and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, metabolic syndrome is present if you have three or more of the following signs:
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to reduce your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Your doctor will recommend lifestyle changes or medicines to help reduce your blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and blood sugar.
Expectations (prognosis)
People with metabolic syndrome have an increased long-term risk for developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Review
Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/19/2010
