Summary
A cluster of high blood pressure, insulin resistance, obesity and dyslipidaemia raising heart disease risk.
In depth
Defined by central obesity plus two of high triglycerides, low HDL, hypertension and high fasting glucose. Insulin resistance is central. Management: weight loss, exercise, diet and drugs.
Syndrome criteria vary but share central adiposity and insulin resistance. Fatty liver disease is common. Lifestyle interventions are first-line.
Remember: it predicts heart disease and diabetes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Metabolic Syndrome?
A cluster of high blood pressure, insulin resistance, obesity and dyslipidaemia raising heart disease risk.
Which area of biology covers Metabolic Syndrome, and how advanced is it?
Metabolic Syndrome is one of the 53 topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Hormonal Control of Metabolism, Lipid Biosynthesis, Ketone Body Metabolism.
Can you give an example of Metabolic Syndrome?
It increases risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
What should I learn before Metabolic Syndrome?
Work through the Beginner topics in Metabolism & Bioenergetics first, such as Metabolism, Anabolism and Catabolism, ATP, then return to Metabolic Syndrome. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Metabolic Syndrome?
The closest topics to Metabolic Syndrome are Hormonal Control of Metabolism, Lipid Biosynthesis, Ketone Body Metabolism, Circadian Metabolism. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Metabolic Syndrome?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Metabolic Syndrome. To practise the whole of Metabolism & Bioenergetics, use the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz.
How is Metabolic Syndrome different from Hormonal Control of Metabolism?
Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of high blood pressure, insulin resistance, obesity and dyslipidaemia raising heart disease risk. Hormonal Control of Metabolism: Insulin, glucagon, cortisol, adrenaline and thyroid hormone coordinate fuel use across tissues. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Metabolic Syndrome step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Hormonal Control of Metabolism and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Metabolism & Bioenergetics quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.