Issue 382: Preventing Metabolic Syndrome – Stay Alert to Health Warnings

Introduction to Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic Syndrome is a preventable and treatable condition. Without early screening and intervention, individuals face a sixfold increased risk of diabetes, fourfold risk of hypertension, threefold risk of hyperlipidemia, and double the risk of heart disease and stroke, leading to chronic illnesses. According to the World Health Organization, chronic diseases cause 41 million deaths annually, accounting for 71% of global mortality. Preventive measures include smoking cessation, increased physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management.

In clinical care and management, the focus should be on addressing the risk factors highlighted by Metabolic Syndrome. Beyond necessary medication for advanced clinical conditions, healthcare providers should leverage patients' receptiveness to advice, analyzing lifestyle and dietary habits to propose non-pharmaceutical interventions targeting chronic disease risk factors.

1. Identifying Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome

Criteria for diagnosis:

• Abdominal obesity: Waist circumference ≥90 cm (35 inches) for men and ≥80 cm (31 inches) for women.
• Elevated blood pressure: Systolic BP ≥130 mmHg or diastolic BP ≥85 mmHg.
• High fasting glucose: Fasting glucose ≥100 mg/dL.
• Elevated triglycerides: Triglycerides ≥150 mg/dL.
• Low HDL cholesterol: <40 mg/dL for men, <50 mg/dL for women.
• Meeting three or more criteria confirms a diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome.

2. Causes of Metabolic Syndrome

Unhealthy lifestyles account for approximately 50%, and genetic factors for about 20%.

• Family history of hypertension, diabetes, or hyperlipidemia increases risk.
• Diets low in fiber, high in sugar, and fat, combined with excessive alcohol consumption, are major contributors.
• Chronic stress disrupts endocrine function, raising blood sugar levels and increasing risk over time.

3. Insulin Resistance as a Core Cause

Insulin helps glucose enter cells for energy. Insulin resistance reduces cellular sensitivity to insulin, impairing glucose entry and disrupting metabolism.

4. Detecting Metabolic Syndrome Through Abdominal Obesity

Abdominal obesity indicates excessive visceral fat. While BMI is a global obesity measure, it cannot fully reflect visceral fat accumulation. Waist circumference better represents fat distribution, with higher values linked to metabolic abnormalities.

5. Five Key Strategies to Prevent Metabolic Syndrome

1. Smart Choices, Healthy Eating: Follow the "Three Lows, One High" guideline (low fat, low sugar, low salt, high fiber).
2. Get Moving: Reduce sedentary behavior; aim for at least 30 minutes of daily exercise.
3. No Smoking, Minimal Alcohol
4. Manage Stress, Boost Vitality: Relieve stress through exercise, conversation, reading, singing, journaling, humor, and reframing perspectives. Seek support from family or friends and consult professionals if needed.
5. Regular Health Checks: Utilize preventive care checkups to catch issues early.

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Source: Health Promotion Administration, Taiwan.