Causes
The exact cause of metabolic syndrome is not known. It believed to be due to a combination of factors, such as:
- Genetic factors
- Insulin resistance
- Obesity —especially central obesity, in core of body
- Lack of physical activity
- Poor diet
- Fatty tissue abnormalities linked to insulin resistance and obesity
- Psychological stress
- Chronic low-grade inflammation
- Aging
Risk Factors
Risk factors for metabolic syndrome include the following:
- Overweight (especially excessive fat in the abdominal region)
- Poor diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
-
Gender
- No difference in Caucasians
- African Americans: females more than males by 57%
- Mexican Americans: females more than males by 26%
- Genetics: family history of diabetes, lipid disorders, high blood pressure , or heart disease
- Socioeconomic factor with high incidence in low household income families
- Age: over 60 years old
- Ethnicity: Latino/Hispanic American, African American, Native American, Asian American, Pacific Islander
- History of glucose intolerance or gestational diabetes
-
A diagnosis of any of the following conditions:
- High blood pressure
- Elevated triglycerides/low HDL-cholesterol
- Cardiovascular disease
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Acute pancreatitis
- Chronic kidney disease
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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