What is it
Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial situation with high cardiovascular risk. This means that sufferers have a higher than average risk of heart attack.
It is not a specific pathology, but a set of risk factors present at the same time such as to predispose the person who suffers from it to serious pathologies.
In addition to the increased risk of heart attack, in fact, the probability of suffering for example from diabetes and hepatic steatosis (fatty liver) is higher than in the general population.
Risk factors
To talk about metabolic syndrome it is necessary that three or more risk factors are present at the same time, such as:
How widespread is it
According to some estimates, metabolic syndrome seems to affect almost half of adults over the age of 50-60 years.
According to other studies conducted on the general population, however, this syndrome affects about 25 percent of men and 27 percent of women in Italy, which means about 14 million individuals.
An incidence that, according to projections, is expected to grow in the coming years.
Prevention
The likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome increases with age and is, in most cases, closely linked to incorrect lifestyles.
As can be seen from risk factors, nutrition and physical activity play a fundamental role in the prevention of metabolic syndrome.
The best way to prevent it is to increase regular physical activity and reduce body weight. Combining exercises with a regular diet, low in fat and rich in fruits and vegetables.
Therapies
Metabolic syndrome therapies vary from case to case, mainly due to the risk factors present.
For example, medications for hypertension or hypoglycemic agents may be prescribed.
If a condition of excess weight is present, a low-calorie diet and regular and frequent physical activity will be prescribed.
When to go to the doctor
If you think you are at risk for metabolic syndrome, you should talk to your family doctor who can evaluate whether to prescribe a specialist visit.
Joycelyn Elders is the author and creator of EmpowerEssence, a health and wellness blog. Elders is a respected public health advocate and pediatrician dedicated to promoting general health and well-being.
The blog covers a wide range of topics related to health and wellness, with articles organized into several categories.