METABOLIC SYNDROME : A LOOMING RISK

Abstract

The etiology of metabolic syndrome is not clear. However, it is thought that obesity, adipose tissue disorders and insulin resistance have important effects on the physiopathology of dyslipidemia, glucose intolerance, chronic subclinical inflammation and hypertension. Although the prevalence of metabolic syndrome differ according to diagnostic criteria and study populations, prevalence rates have rapidly increased during the recent years. In the physiopathology of metabolic syndrome, environmental factors as well as genetic factors play an important role. In parallel to this fact, the main aim of treatment provided for patients, diagnosed with metabolic syndrome is regulating life style habits and in this way, treating the underlying causes. Thus adopting healthy life style behaviors, educating the patient and his/her family is of paramount importance. In this review, metabolic syndrome, its diagnostic criteria, main components and treatment approaches are addressed in the light of the current literature.