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What is metabolic syndrome?
What you need to know about the condition affecting 1 in 3 Americans
Jovanna Arce, MMS
Physician Reviewed
Feb 19, 2026
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together and can significantly increase a person's risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include elevated blood sugar, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as excess fat around the abdomen/waist. When a person develops three or more of these conditions, they develop what we know as metabolic syndrome. With growing rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles, metabolic syndrome has become an increasingly prevalent public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. Many of those affected aren't even aware they have it.
Pathophysiology/Background
Metabolic syndrome is closely linked to a condition known as insulin resistance, which occurs when the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin. Insulin is a hormone responsible for allowing glucose, or sugar, to enter cells and be used as fuel. When these cells resist the effects of insulin, the pancreas begins to panic and compensates by producing more insulin. Despite these efforts, blood sugar levels begin to increase over time, and this process contributes to disturbances in lipid metabolism and increased fat storage, particularly around the abdomen.
Visceral fat, which is the fat stored around internal organs in the abdominal cavity, plays a key role in the development and progression of metabolic syndrome. Visceral fat, unlike subcutaneous fat (found just under the skin), is metabolically active and releases inflammatory chemicals that contribute to insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Altogether, these processes damage blood vessels, increase plaque formation, and escalate the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. On top of lifestyle and environmental factors, genetics, diet, physical inactivity, and aging all influence the development of metabolic syndrome.
Prevalence in Society
Metabolic syndrome affects roughly every one in three adults in the United States, yet most people who suffer from it aren't aware. For those who are aware, many do not understand what it is or how if affects their body. The condition is strongly linked to rising obesity rates, processed food consumption, and increased sedentary lifestyles. It's also more common in certain populations and demographics, such as older adults or individuals with a family history of diabetes or heart disease. On top of individual health risks, the development of metabolic syndrome also leads to significant economic burden through increased healthcare costs, long-term complications, and lack of productivity. Many people remain undiagnosed until more serious conditions arise, highlighting the need for greater awareness and early screening.
Ties to Covenant's Mission
At Covenant Metabolic Specialists, we recognize the importance of early screenings for patients who are diagnosed with or are at risk of metabolic syndrome, including conditions that are often overlooked, such as fatty liver disease. According to NIH, about 70% of patients with metabolic syndrome also suffer from fatty liver disease. At Covenant, we offer advanced diagnostic tools, including Fibroscan and comprehensive lab testing, to support early detection in high-risk patients. If fatty liver disease is identified, we provide cutting-edge treatment options to slow or reverse disease progression before it worsens.
Conclusion
Metabolic syndrome is a silent yet serious threat to public health. Understanding the underlying causes and impact is essential for prevention and early intervention. Lifestyle modifications such as regular physical activity, a balanced diet, weight management, and routine healthcare visits can greatly reduce risk. Placing importance on proactive evaluation of more serious health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and fatty liver disease, is also considerably beneficial. By recognizing and addressing metabolic syndrome early, individuals can take meaningful steps towards preventing life-threatening chronic disease and improving overall health.
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