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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Pulse-Wave Velocity, Flow-Mediated Dilation, and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness to Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Population with Metabolic Syndrome
06:04

Pulse-Wave Velocity, Flow-Mediated Dilation, and Carotid Intima-Media Thickness to Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Population with Metabolic Syndrome

Published on: September 27, 2024

The metabolic syndrome in women: a growing problem for cardiac risk

Sara Paul1, Lanna Smith

  • 1Heart Function Clinic, Western Piedmont Heart Centers, 1771 Tate Boulevard SE, Suite 201, Hickory, NC 28602, USA. smcpaul@earthlink.net

The Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing
|February 21, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of risk factors including obesity and hypertension, significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk. Lifestyle changes like weight reduction and exercise are key to managing this condition, especially in women.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Women's Health

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is linked to metabolic and physiological factors like abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia.
  • Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is the common term for this cluster of risk factors.
  • Individuals with MetS have a tripled risk of coronary heart disease (CHD).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the definition, prevalence, pathogenesis, and treatment of MetS specifically in women.
  • To explore the relationship between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and MetS.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on MetS and PCOS.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data on MetS prevalence in women.
  • Synthesis of current understanding of MetS pathogenesis and treatment strategies.

Main Results:

  • MetS is a significant risk factor for CVD, particularly in women.
  • PCOS is frequently associated with MetS, suggesting a shared pathophysiology.
  • Weight reduction and increased physical activity are primary treatment modalities.

Conclusions:

  • MetS poses a substantial threat to cardiovascular health in women.
  • Understanding the link between PCOS and MetS is crucial for effective management and prevention strategies.
  • Lifestyle interventions are paramount in mitigating MetS-related risks.

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