The metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors predisposing to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The National Health and Morbidity Surveys (NHMS) have shown that the prevalence of the cardiovascular (CV) risk factors – hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, overweight/obesity and smoking – has been on an increasing trend.
Metabolic Syndrome
According to Clinical Practice Guideline of CVD 2017. The terminology was change to Cardio metabolic risk. It refers to a cluster of CV risk factors that predispose to diabetes and CVD. The common denominator is insulin resistance which is characterized by abdominal obesity.
Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition that affects about 23 percent of adults and places them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and diseases related to fatty buildups in artery walls.(#AHA)
The underlying causes of metabolic syndrome include overweight and obesity, physical inactivity, genetic factors and getting older.
How it occurs
Metabolic syndrome occurs when a person has three or more of the following measurements: (NCEP 2001)
1. Abdominal obesity (Waist circumference of greater than 102 cm in men, and greater than 88 cm in women)
2. Triglyceride level of 1.7 (mmol/L) or greater
3. HDL cholesterol of less than 1.0 mmol/L in men or less than 1.3 mmol/L in women
4. Systolic blood pressure (top number) of 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or greater, or diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) of 85 mm Hg or greater
5. Fasting glucose of 5.6 mmol/L or greater
The prevalence
The prevalence of the Metabolic Syndrome in Malaysia is among the highest in the world.
Data from NHMS V 2015 showed that the prevalence of these CV risk factors begin
to increase from the age of 30 years. So early prevention of metabolic syndrome must take place.
Although metabolic syndrome is a serious condition, but you can reduce your risks significantly by reducing your weight if you are overweight/obese; increasing your physical activity; eating a heart healthy diet that's rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and fish; and working with your healthcare professional to monitor and manage blood glucose, blood cholesterol, and blood pressure.
Dietary and lifestyle changes should be emphasized. Learn more about prevention and management of Metabolic Syndrome.