Health Science Reviews

by Owethu Mlambo

Diabetes and cancer are often seen as adult problems, but the roots of these diseases arise much earlier than anticipated. Recently a review published in Endocrine titled the Mechanisms and risk factors of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents explores the complexity of metabolic syndrome and why it is prevalent in younger populations. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is defined as a group of conditions like abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, elevated cholesterol levels and unhealthy blood pressure which increases the risk of developing cancer, diabetes, stroke and heart disease later in life.

Diagnosing MetS in children and adolescents is diCicult as there is no universal definition due to children constantly developing. The International Diabetes Federations guidelines are currently the most accepted for adults and adolescents between the ages of 10-16 but cannot be applied to children younger than 10 years. Therefore, lack of a standardized diagnostic criteria leads to underdiagnosis and undertreatment of MetS. The review aims to investigate the complex biological mechanisms and risk factors implicated in the development of MetS in younger populations.

The review thoroughly investigates the complex biological mechanisms such as insulin resistance, inflammation, belly fat, unhealthy gut microbiome and Vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, it delves into major risk lifestyle factors including unhealthy diet, lack of sleep and physical inactivity that contribute to MetS. The authors of the review combined literature from previous studies focusing on genetic and environmental factors influencing metabolic health, childhood obesity, insulin resistance summarized it into one review that highlights the complex and multifactorial nature of MetS.

The key findings demonstrated that insulin resistance is often a central precursor before symptoms are visible. Factors that contribute to MetS can either be modifiable (diet and exercise) or non-modifiable (genetics). Visceral fat releases proinflammatory molecules which cause dyslipidemia and cardiovascular complications.

Early diagnosis and detection of metabolic syndrome helps prevent and delay the onset of MetS and its long-term eCect. Encouraging healthy lifestyle habits during childhood reduces the long- term burden of chronic diseases. ECective preventive strategies involve lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, healthy diet, exercise and adequate sleep.

Codazzi V, Frontino G, Galimberti L, Giustina A, Petrelli A. Mechanisms and risk factors of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents. Endocrine. 2024 Apr;84(1):16-28. doi:10.1007/s12020-023-03642-x. Epub 2023 Dec 22. PMID: 38133765; PMCID: PMC10987369.