Find out more about our Academic Medical Centre and efforts in Academic Medicine
Academic Medicine Executive Committee (AM EXCO)
Find out more about what JOAM do to support AM initiatives
Find out more about the Office of Duke-NUS Affairs and Study Trip to Duke Durham
Guidelines, forms, and templates for Academic Medicine.
By Dr Ruan XuCong, Associate Consultant, Department of Cardiology
Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when a person has at least three of the following symptoms and signs3:
Symptom/Sign
Threshold
High waist circumference
Asian men: ≥ 90cmAsian women: ≥ 80cm
High blood pressure
≥ 130/85 mmHg
Elevated fasting blood sugar
≥ 5.6 mmol/L
High triglycerides
≥ 1.7 mmol/L
Low HDL cholesterol levels
It is worth noting that some people may not show any symptoms, particularly in the early stages, which underscores the importance of regular health screenings. In many cases, metabolic syndrome is diagnosed during routine check-ups. Given its often silent nature, it is not surprising that metabolic syndrome is frequently misunderstood. To clear up some common misconceptions:
“Only overweight individuals are at risk.”
This is not true. While excess weight increases the risk, even thin individuals with poor diets or sedentary lifestyles can develop metabolic syndrome.
“It’s not serious.”
In fact, metabolic syndrome is linked to severe long-term health risks if left unmanaged.'
“Medication alone can manage the condition.”
While medication can help, lifestyle changes are crucial for long-term management and prevention of metabolic syndrome.
Lifestyle plays a crucial role in both preventing and managing metabolic syndrome. A healthy diet low in refined sugars and saturated fats, while rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, can help control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Regular exercise aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly can reduce insulin resistance, improve blood pressure, and support weight loss. Even modest weight loss can significantly lower risks. Lastly, refrain from smoking and limit alcohol intake as these habits can contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome.Treatment often involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Some common medications include those for blood pressure control, statins to lower cholesterol, and diabetes medication to manage blood glucose. However, medication alone is not sufficient. Sustainable lifestyle changes are crucial for long-term management and prevention.If left untreated, metabolic syndrome can lead to severe health issues such as cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart attack, stroke), fatty liver disease, and chronic kidney disease.For individuals already diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, regular monitoring of blood pressure, glucose levels, and cholesterol is essential. A personalised care plan with healthcare providers, including doctors, dietitians and physiotherapists, can minimise risks and prevent complications.Overall, metabolic syndrome is preventable and manageable, with lifestyle adjustments serving as the cornerstone of both prevention and treatment.
REFERENCES
1. O’Neill, S. & O’Driscoll, L. Metabolic syndrome: a closer look at the growing epidemic and its associated pathologies. Obesity Reviews 16, 1–12 (2015).
2. Cho, L. W. Metabolic syndrome. Singapore Med J 52, 779–785 (2011).
3. Grundy, S. M. et al. Diagnosis and Management of the Metabolic Syndrome. Circulation 112, 2735–2752 (2005).
This article is from Murmurs Issue 48. Click here to read other articles or issues.
Tags: CHEST;Heart
Tags: