What is metabolic syndrome?

The metabolic syndrome in women is diagnosed by elevated blood pressure level (greater than or equal to 130/85), increased waist circumference (greater than or equal to 35 inches), elevated fasting glucose levels (greater than or equal to 100 mg/dL), reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level-the good cholesterol (less than or equal to 50 mg/dL), and elevated triglyceride levels (greater than or equal to 150 mg/dL). In turn, all these conditions are risk factors for long-term metabolic sequelae, such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.