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Review
. 2017 Oct;6(4):397-407.
doi: 10.21037/tp.2017.10.02.

Metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents

Dania Al-Hamad  1 , Vandana Raman  1
Affiliations
Review

Metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents

Dania Al-Hamad et al. Transl Pediatr. 2017 Oct.

Abstract

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents is increasing, in parallel with the increasing trends in obesity rates. Varying definitions of this syndrome have hindered the development of a consensus for the diagnostic criteria in the pediatric population. While pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome is not completely understood, insulin resistance and subsequent inflammation are thought to be among its main mechanistic underpinnings. Overweight and obesity are cardinal features, along with abnormal glucose metabolism, dyslipidemia, and hypertension. Other disorders associated with metabolic syndrome include fatty liver, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and pro-inflammatory states. Prevention and management of this condition can be accomplished with lifestyle modifications, behavioral interventions, pharmacological and surgical interventions as needed.

Keywords: Metabolic syndrome; obesity; pediatrics.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflicts of Interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.

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