Study raises concerns over rising metabolic syndrome in US population

Metabolic acid affects US citizens on a much larger scale today than in the past. The condition manifests as a cluster of metabolic risk factors such as increased blood pressure, a high blood sugar level, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol levels.

The presence of these factors, predisposed the body to deadly health problems such as heart attack, stroke and even diabetes.

According to the American Heart Association, it affected 34 per cent of adults and the prevalence of the syndrome had increased through the years. From 2011 to 2012, there had been an overall, increase from 32.9 per cent to 34.7 per cent.

According to American Heart Association president who spoke to MedPage Today, while it was disturbing that a decrease in the prevalence had not been seen, it was somewhat reassuring that the prevalence appeared to have leveled off since 2007.

With combination of symptoms including obesity, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, it could potentially predispose the body to cardiovascular illness and even death.

According to Healthline, while the rate of metabolic syndrome had stayed in a plateau for years, the rate of those affected still raised concerns especially that it entailed various health consequences linked to the syndrome.

Between the years 2003 and 2012, the overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome rose from 32.9 per cent to 34.7 per cent, and during the period, prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher in women than men.

The syndrome was also found to be more prevalent among Hispanics than non-Hispanic blacks and whites.

The syndrome's prevalence also increased with age, ranging from 18.3 per cent in 20 to 39 year olds, to 46.7 per cent in those over the age of 60. In the plus 60 age group, over 50 per cent of women and Hispanics had metabolic syndrome.

The researchers further noted that prevalence of the life-threatening condition in this age group was "a concerning observation given the aging US population."

According to the researchers, a greater awareness of the syndrome and the health consequences involved might be aiding the improvement of treatment for major risk factors, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.