SELECTED TREATMENT APPROACHES FOR METABOLIC SYNDROME: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an important risk factor for premature death amongst the Polish population. In 2014, CVD accounted for 45.1% of all deaths. According to a World Health Organization expert analysis published in 2004, around 80% of cases of CVD, stroke and type 2 diabetes mellitus are preventable if the most important risk factors can be addressed. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) defines a constellation of risk factors, including obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, associated with the development of CVD. National cross-sectional research on the health of Poles indicates that over 90% of men and 89% of women have at least one risk factor. It is estimated that in the coming years the number of obese people will increase and the incidence of diabetes and arterial hypertension will increase. This paper presents the most important and effective methods for the treatment of MetS, which include a well-balanced diet, physical activity, vibrotherapy, and pharmacotherapy. Effective action taken early on can reduce not only mortality risk, but also decrease prevalence and disability and improve the quality of life of Polish citizens.