The metabolic syndrome is a multiplex risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease
and type 2 diabetes. It is composed of atherogenic dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure,
insulin resistance and elevated glucose, a pro-thrombotic state, and a pro-inflammatory
state. Excess energy intake and concomitant obesity are the major drivers of the syndrome.
Lifestyle intervention can reverse metabolic risk factors, but at times, drug therapies or
bariatric surgery may be required to control more overt risk factors.