Among the Region's Best for Endocrinology
U.S.News and World Report has named Jefferson among the best hospitals in the region for Diabetes and Endocrinology.
Metabolic syndrome significantly raises the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease and/or stroke. Obesity and insulin resistance are also closely linked to the condition.
At Jefferson, our endocrinologists use the latest science to develop strategies to lower the risk of recurrent disease in patients with previous cardiovascular and metabolic ailments and prevent the onset of heart disease in those at risk.
Diagnosing Metabolic Syndrome
A patient needs to have at least three of the following five risk factors to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome:
- A large waistline – also known as abdominal obesity, it is defined as a waist circumference of more than 40 inches for men and more than 35 inches for women.
- A high triglyceride level – a type of fat found in the blood, a high level is considered more than 150 mg/dl.
- A low HDL cholesterol level – sometimes called "good" cholesterol. Men would have a level of less than 40 mg/dl and women would be less than 50 mg/dl.
- High blood pressure – levels equal or greater to 130 mm Hg systolic or 85 mm Hg diastolic
- High fasting blood sugar – glucose abnormalities are characterized by a fasting plasma glucose of more than 100 mg/dl, or more severe hyperglycemia.
Managing Metabolic Syndrome
The focus on this disease is prevention and changing behaviors that can lead to chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Jefferson endocrinologists and cardiologists can help you manage the risk factors of metabolic syndrome and reduce the probability of developing heart disease. Our medical team will lessen your metabolic syndrome risks by providing individualized counseling on lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication therapy.