By Joseph Hazan, M.D., FACOG
The problem of obesity has now reached
epidemic proportions in the US
and is the single greatest healthcare problem
and the most expensive in
its effects.
The Metabolic Syndrome which is a
consequence of the obesity epidemic
is alarming with increased insulin resistance,
hypertension, blood profile
that is prone to clots, low- level of vessel i
nflammatory response which
causes thrombosis, atherosclerotic
cardiovascular and cerebrovascular
disease.
This results in higher rates of type 2 diabetes,
hypertension, heart attacks,
stroke, venous thromboembolism
(impaired and blocked blood flow),
nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis,
liver failure, sleep apnea, gout,
depression, decline in mental and
psychologic function, cancer and early
death.
Metabolic Syndrome is most common
among the over 50 group with
more than half of women in this age
group now being effected.
Especially among the Native Americans and
Mexican Americans it is very high
(about 70%).
The rate is steadily increasing among other
ethnic groups and since 1988 the prevalence
has increased by 150%.
It is associated with decreased physical activity,
high carbohydrate intake,
smoking and low socioeconomic status.
Lifestyle modification, diet and exercise is
needed to change this trend.
HDL, Triglycerides, Fasting Blood Glucose,
Blood Pressure, Obesity
are all related and addressing the obesity
problem is key to dealing with
the Metabolic Syndrome.
Weight Loss is the key to helping reduce all of
the related health problems.
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