[Metabolic syndrome and life style]

This study's objective was to identify, the repercussion of the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome in the life of those who suffer from that disease. It was an exploratory-descriptive research with qualitative approach, carried out with 18 people randomly selected, who have the disease in the city of Vanini, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Data were collected by means of semistructured individual interviews in April, 2007. The analysis technique was used to examine the interview contents. The following categories were elaborated: meaning of diagnosis, feeding re-education, change in life style, integration in groups, disposition and well-being. Through this study it was possible to observe that metabolic syndrome patients need health professionals to provide continuous support, follow up and guidance in order to strengthen their autonomy and enhance patient's responsibility.