Metabolic Syndrome: The Hidden Danger for People with Abdominal Obesity

People with abdominal obesity have visceral fat that is more likely to cause abnormal sugar metabolism compared to fat distributed in other parts of the body. This results in higher than normal blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance. The pancreas must produce more insulin to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

Over time, the pancreas becomes damaged and cannot produce enough insulin, leading to diabetes. At the same time, it is a risk factor for increased blood lipid levels and high blood pressure. It has been found that individuals with 3 or more risk factors have twice the risk of heart disease, and those with 4 or more risk factors have three times the risk of heart and cerebrovascular disease, as well as a 24-fold increased risk of diabetes, based on the following criteria.

Diagnostic Criteria for Risk in People with Abdominal Obesity Metabolic Syndrome

1. Waist circumference greater than or equal to 90 cm in men and greater than or equal to 80 cm in women
2. Blood pressure higher than 130/85 mmHg or patients receiving antihypertensive medication
3. Blood sugar level greater than or equal to 100 mg/dL or diagnosed with type 2 diabetes
4. Triglyceride level greater than or equal to 150 mg/dL or patients with high cholesterol receiving lipid-lowering medication
5. HDL cholesterol level less than or equal to 50 mg/dL in women and less than or equal to 40 mg/dL in men, or patients receiving lipid-lowering treatment

Main Causes of Abdominal Obesity

The exact cause is unknown but is believed to be due to insulin resistance. Individuals at risk include

• Obese individuals, especially those with abdominal obesity, which leads to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high blood triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease
• Insulin resistance which may result from obesity, aging, or certain medications. It has been found that people with abdominal obesity have more insulin resistance than those without
• Genetics as insulin resistance varies among different ethnicities

Health Consequences of Abdominal Obesity

The health consequences of abdominal obesity often include diabetes combined with high blood lipids, leading to blockage of blood vessels supplying the heart or brain. This increases the risk of coronary artery disease and stroke, potentially causing paralysis.

Management of Abdominal Obesity

The principle of treating abdominal obesity is to reduce risk factors for vascular disease, including controlling the components of this syndrome: diabetes, high blood lipids, high blood pressure, and reducing waist circumference. In addition to continuous medication, dietary behavior should be adjusted by selecting types and controlling food portions, along with regular exercise. If self-efforts fail to control or reduce weight, consulting a doctor for appropriate treatment and weight loss methods is recommended.