Metabolic syndrome is a condition in which the body experiences multiple health problems simultaneously, such as a large waistline, abnormal blood lipid levels, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. Doctor Nguyen Tuan Long from the cardiology department of Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi said that when a person has 3 of these 4 signs, the risk of developing cardiovascular disease early can increase 3 times higher than normal.

According to Dr. Long, these conditions, when prolonged over many years, increase chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction – the layer of cells lining the inside of blood vessels. When the endothelium is damaged, the formation of atherosclerotic plaques inside the arteries accelerates, hindering blood flow to the heart. High blood pressure and excess abdominal fat increase pressure on the cardiovascular system, forcing the heart to overwork to pump blood, eventually leading to heart failure and dangerous arrhythmias.

Cardiovascular problems are typically seen in people aged 50-60 and older. However, in recent years, many people in their 40s have experienced cardiovascular events. According to the Preventive Health Department, cardiovascular disease is rapidly increasing and affecting younger individuals. This disease accounts for 25% of annual deaths, approximately 200,000 people, including many patients in their 20s and 30s. At Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, 15-20% of cardiovascular patients are under 50, increasing by 10-20% each year. Metabolic syndrome is considered one of the leading risk factors.

"Many people are unaware they have this condition because the signs are silent, and they are hospitalized when the disease is in its advanced stages," Dr. Long emphasized.

For example, Tuan, 43, had been experiencing chest tightness, fatigue, and nausea after eating for two days. Doctors discovered he had severe coronary artery blockage, a completely blocked anterior interventricular artery branch, multiple blood clots, and was at risk of a dangerous heart attack. Tuan underwent thrombus aspiration, balloon angioplasty, and stent placement to restore blood flow. Dr. Tuan Long said the cause of Tuan's coronary artery disease stemmed from prolonged metabolic syndrome. Tuan had a BMI of 40.75 (class III obesity) along with abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance.

Dr. Long examines and advises a patient. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Lan, 39, went to the doctor because of prolonged chest tightness, palpitations, and fatigue. She had a BMI of 32, categorized as obese, along with high blood pressure, high fasting blood sugar, and dyslipidemia. She was also diagnosed with atrial fibrillation – a dangerous heart rhythm disorder that increases the risk of stroke and heart failure if not promptly controlled. Previously, Lan smoked, was inactive, experienced early menopause at 37, and had a family history of heart disease and diabetes.

Lan received medical treatment, including heart rate control, anticoagulants to prevent blood clots, combined with weight loss and increased physical activity. After two months of treatment and follow-up, her heart rate returned to normal.

The team performs coronary artery intervention for a patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

According to Dr. Long, metabolic syndrome causes inflammation, vascular damage, and cardiac changes, leading to atrial fibrillation. Several factors combined cause metabolic syndrome, such as insulin resistance and being overweight. An unhealthy diet, smoking, alcohol abuse, lack of physical activity, and genetic factors also contribute to increased risk.

Preventing metabolic syndrome requires a healthy diet, at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding overweight and obesity.

Ly Nguyen

*Patient names have been changed.