Metabolic syndrome management

Overweight, obesity and the metabolic syndrome occur in genetically susceptible individuals with environmental influences, and may be further compounded by other disorders of metabolism or pharmacological therapy that increase insulin resistance or promotes weight gain. Treatment of the metabolic syndrome should focus on treatment of each individual component first. Lifestyle modification, including diet and exercise with a goal of weight reduction, is the foundation of any successful treatment regimen for the metabolic syndrome. Pharmacological therapy should be individualized and targeted to normalize blood pressure, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose values. If successful, comprehensive management of the metabolic syndrome promises to delay or prevent the development of coronary heart disease and Type 2 diabetes mellitus.