The metabolic syndrome in East Asians

Abstract

The metabolic syndrome is an emerging epidemic in developing nations, including East Asian countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. Studies examining the metabolic syndrome have used different definitions, with prevalence often highly dependent on the cut points for abdominal obesity utilized, which have been recommended by the International Diabetes Federation to be lower than standards used in Caucasians and other ethnic groups. Prevalence rates have generally varied from 8% to 13% in men and 2% to 18% in women, depending on ethnic group and definition used, and are consistently lower than most Western Caucasian populations. While recent dramatic changes in lifestyle from Westernization of dietary habits and reduced physical activity present challenges, an emphasis on healthful lifestyle changes remains the cornerstone for metabolic syndrome management. In addition, clinical management focusing on control of obesity, elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia, with consideration of pharmacologic therapy issues unique to certain Asian populations, remains important for reducing associated cardiometabolic risks.