Metabolic Syndrome: The Constellation of Co-morbidities, A Global Threat

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome, also referred to as Syndrome X or obesity syndrome is a cluster of diseases prevalent worldwide in both developed and developing countries. According to WHO, it is referred to as a pathological condition wherein multiple disorders are manifested in the same individual. These include hypertension, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and abdominal obesity.

Aims: Metabolic syndrome is one of the most serious non-communicable health hazards that have gained pivotal importance in the present scenario. The increasing prevalence affecting around 25 % of the world populace, mainly attributes to the acceptance of western culture, i.e. the intake of highcalorie food along with a substantial decrease in manual labor and adoption of sedentary lifestyles. Therefore, its timely prevention and management are the dire need in the present scenario.

Methods: For successful accomplishment of the present review, an exhaustive analysis was performed utilizing a pool of previous related literature. The terms used during the search included 'metabolic syndrome, prevalence, etiology, current pharmacotherapy for metabolic syndrome, etc. PUBMED, Medline and SCOPUS were explored for the study of abstracts, research and review papers in the quest for related data. The articles were downloaded and utilized for a meta-analysis study approach.

Conclusion: In this review, an attempt was made to apprehend and summarize the epidemiology and treatment strategies for metabolic syndrome with a better understanding of its pathogenesis. It was postulated that an early diagnostic approach and subsequent line of treatment is required to prevent the deterioration of an individual's health and life.

Keywords: Metabolic syndrome; co-morbidities; dyslipidemia; hypertension; obesity; type 2 diabetes.