Medical Services

Metabolic syndrome, also called insulin resistance syndrome, is a group of interconnected health conditions that significantly raise the risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and other serious complications. It is diagnosed when a person has three or more of five key conditions: central or abdominal obesity (waist circumference >40 inches in men, >35 inches in women), high triglycerides (?150 mg/dL), low HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL in men, <50 mg/dL in women), high blood pressure (?130/85 mm Hg), and elevated fasting glucose (?100 mg/dL).

The syndrome is linked primarily to insulin resistance, where the body doesn't respond properly to insulin, and excess fat around the tummy. About 1 in 3 adults in the United States has metabolic syndrome, making it very common.

Metabolic syndrome increases the chances of developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, gout, certain cancers, and may affect fertility. Most conditions have no visible signs except a large waistline, but high blood sugar can cause blurred vision, increased thirst, urination, and tiredness.

The syndrome is largely preventable and reversible through healthy lifestyle changes, including weight loss, regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and smoking cessation. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar through medication when needed also reduces complications.