Metabolic syndrome in children unravelled

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults is a well-established constellation of cardiometabolic risk factors related to obesity, and is associated with an increased risk of development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. However, paucity of evidence for a unifying pathophysiologic mechanism and lack of a consensus definition until recently have resulted in controversies as to the relevance of the concept in clinical practice. Clustering of the risk factors is increasingly being recognized in children and adolescents with the rising prevalence of childhood obesity. Recent efforts at obtaining normative data of children for the components of MetS and a consensus definition for the use in childhood have enabled easier implementation of the concept in paediatrics. Emerging data from longitudinal cohorts of children points to tracking of these risk factors into adulthood and increased risk of adverse health outcomes in later life. The concept of MetS may help the clinician to focus on relevant risk factors and identify a subgroup of obese children with an increased risk of future complications.