The problem of obesity has now reached epidemic proportions in the US and is the single greatest healthcare problem and the most expensive in its effects. The Metabolic Syndrome which is a consequence of the obesity epidemic is alarming with increased insulin resistance, hypertension, blood profile that is prone to clots, low- level of vessel inflammatory response which causes thrombosis, atherosclerotic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease.
This results in higher rates of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart attacks, stroke, venous thromboembolism (impaired and blocked blood flow), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, liver failure, sleep apnea, gout, depression, decline in mental and psychologic function, cancer and early death. Metabolic Syndrome is most common among the over 50 group with more than half of women in this age group now being effected. Especially among the Native Americans and Mexican Americans it is very high (about 70%).
The rate is steadily increasing among other ethnic groups and since 1988 the prevalence has increased by 150%. It is associated with decreased physical activity, high carbohydrate intake, smoking and low socioeconomic status. Lifestyle modification, diet and exercise is needed to change this trend. HDL, Triglycerides, Fasting Blood Glucose, Blood Pressure, Obesity are all related and addressing the obesity problem is key to dealing with the Metabolic Syndrome. Weight Loss is the key to helping reduce all of the related health problems.