Journal of Hypertension and Heart Care

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Short Communication - Journal of Hypertension and Heart Care (2023) Volume 6, Issue 2

Metabolic syndrome in children: prevention and early detection strategies

Peng Chia*

Department of Clinical Physiology (IFC), the National Research Council (CNR), via Moruzzi, Pisa, Italy

*Corresponding Author:
Peng Chia
Department of Clinical Physiology (IFC)
the National Research Council (CNR)
via Moruzzi, Pisa, Italy
E-mail: peng@cnr.it

Received: 30-Mar-2023, Manuscript No. AAJHHC-23-94748; Editor assigned: 31-Mar-2023, PreQC No. AAJHHC-23-94748(PQ); Reviewed: 14-April-2023, QC No. AAJHHC-23-94748; Revised: 21-April-2023, Manuscript No. AAJHHC-23-94748(R); Published: 28-April-2023, DOI: 10.35841/AAJHHC-6.2.139

Citation: Chia P. Metabolic syndrome in children: prevention and early detection strategies. J Hypertens Heart Care. 2023;6(2):139

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Abstract

  

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome is a condition that involves a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and dyslipidaemia. The presence of metabolic syndrome in children is becoming increasingly common, and it is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes later in life. Therefore, prevention and early detection strategies for metabolic syndrome in children are of utmost importance [1].

Prevention Strategies

Prevention strategies for metabolic syndrome in children should be aimed at reducing the risk factors that contribute to its development. These include:

Promoting healthy eating habits: Encouraging children to eat a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products can help reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Limiting the intake of sugary drinks, processed foods, and high-calorie snacks can also help prevent obesity, which is a major risk factor for metabolic syndrome.

Encouraging physical activity: Regular physical activity can help improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels, all of which are important for preventing metabolic syndrome. Encouraging children to engage in regular physical activity, such as playing sports, dancing, or simply going for a walk, can help promote a healthy lifestyle.

Limiting sedentary activities: Reducing the amount of time children spend watching TV, playing video games, or using electronic devices can help promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behaviour, which is a major risk factor for obesity and metabolic syndrome.

Promoting healthy sleep habits: Getting enough sleep is important for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and improving overall health [2,3]. Encouraging children to establish healthy sleep habits, such as setting a regular bedtime and avoiding electronic devices before bedtime, can help prevent metabolic syndrome.

Identifying and treating risk factors: Identifying and treating risk factors for metabolic syndrome, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar, can help prevent the development of metabolic syndrome. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help identify these risk factors early and allow for early intervention [4,5].

Early Detection Strategies

Early detection of metabolic syndrome in children is important to prevent its progression and the development of associated complications. The following strategies can be used for early detection:

Regular health check-ups: Regular health check-ups with a healthcare provider can help identify the presence of risk factors for metabolic syndrome, such as obesity, high blood pressure, and abnormal lipid levels. Healthcare providers can also screen for early signs of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

Body Mass Index (BMI): Body Mass Index is a simple and non-invasive way to assess a child's weight status. BMI is calculated by dividing a child's weight in kilograms by their height in meters squared. A BMI above the 85th percentile for age and gender is considered overweight, while a BMI above the 95th percentile is considered obese. Waist circumference: Waist circumference is another measure that can be used to assess a child's weight status and risk for metabolic syndrome. A waist circumference above the 90th percentile for age and gender is considered high and may indicate the presence of abdominal obesity, which is a risk factor for metabolic syndrome.

Lipid profile: A lipid profile is a blood test that measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Abnormal lipid levels, such as high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol, are associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.

Fasting blood glucose: Fasting blood glucose is a blood test that measures the level of glucose in the blood after an overnight fast. Elevated fasting blood glucose levels may indicate the presence of insulin resistance and early signs of type 2 diabetes.

In conclusion, metabolic syndrome in children is a serious health concern that is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes later in life. Prevention and early detection strategies for metabolic syndrome in children are essential to reduce the risk of developing these chronic conditions. Promoting healthy eating habits, encouraging physical activity, limiting sedentary activities, promoting healthy sleep habits, and identifying and treating risk factors are important prevention strategies. Regular health check-ups, BMI, waist circumference, lipid profile, and fasting blood glucose are useful tools for early detection. It is crucial for healthcare providers, parents, and caregivers to work together to implement these strategies and promote a healthy lifestyle for children to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome and its associated complications.

References

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