More than 30% of adults face metabolic syndrome health crisis! How to overcome metabolic syndrome

According to the National Health Administration's report on changes in the nation's nutritional health status from 2017 to 2020, more than one-third of the adult population is affected by metabolic syndrome, which means that more than 30% of adults are facing a metabolic syndrome health crisis!

Xiaomei, 35 years old, is 165 cm tall and weighs 85 kg. In the past two years, she has tried many weight loss methods due to obesity, including 168 diet control, exercise, and various weight loss drugs, but the results were not ideal and her weight continued to increase. So she went to the outpatient clinic of Chi Mei Hospital's Endocrinology and Metabolism Director Hong Haozhang for treatment. She complained of mild joint pain and fatigue. Dr. Hong found that Xiaomei's body mass index (BMI) was 31.2 kg/m² and blood pressure was 140/95 mmHg. Blood test results showed high fasting blood sugar and hypothyroidism. She was diagnosed with metabolic syndrome with combined hypothyroidism.

Dr. Hong first treated Xiaomei’s thyroid problem, and then used weight-loss drugs as an auxiliary treatment. In just three months, she successfully lost 6 kilograms, and her metabolic syndrome problems also improved. She is currently receiving continued treatment.

More than 30% of adults face metabolic syndrome health crisis

In recent years, the incidence of metabolic syndrome has been increasing in Taiwan, becoming an important public health issue. According to the National Health Administration's report on the changes in the national nutritional health status from 2017 to 2020, more than one-third of the adult population is affected by metabolic syndrome, and as the problems of overweight and obesity become more serious, this number is expected to continue to rise in the future. Therefore, in addition to strengthening the necessity of research, we should also strengthen education and promotion to the general public and increase people's attention to metabolic syndrome in order to effectively control and prevent the occurrence of metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome threat rises, weight management becomes key

Hong Haozhang, director of the Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism and Clinical Trial Center of Chi Mei Hospital, Chi Mei Medical Foundation, explained that the formation of metabolic syndrome is affected by the interaction of multiple factors, and the impact of being overweight or obese on health is unquestionable. Being overweight increases the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, and puts a strain on the bones, joints, and respiratory system, affecting normal body functions. At the same time, obesity may also have a negative impact on mental health, increase the risk of anxiety and depression, and reduce the quality of life. Therefore, proper weight management can effectively alleviate the health problems caused by metabolic syndrome.

Through proper weight control, we can reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. It also helps maintain the health of bones, joints and respiratory system, reduces discomfort, boosts self-confidence, improves mental health and enhances quality of life. Therefore, we should actively promote education on weight management and remind everyone to pay attention to the serious consequences of metabolic syndrome. Through healthy diet, proper exercise and good living habits, healthy weight management can be effectively achieved to reduce the occurrence of metabolic syndrome.

Director Hong Haozhang said that healthy weight management can be effectively achieved through healthy diet, proper exercise and good living habits to reduce the incidence of metabolic syndrome. (Photo courtesy of Chi Mei Hospital)

Combining healthy living with medical assistance to fight metabolic syndrome

Director Hong Haozhang pointed out that in addition to good living habits such as healthy eating and regular exercise, the appropriate use of weight-loss drugs can also be used as an auxiliary solution. Under the guidance of a professional physician, medication can provide timely assistance in the weight loss process to achieve an ideal state of health. However, you must strictly follow your doctor's instructions when using weight loss medication to avoid possible side effects that may affect your overall health.

Director Hong Haozhang said that weight management is extremely important to overcome metabolic syndrome. People should face up to the harm of overweight and obesity to health and adopt multi-faceted strategies to promote health management. Through a healthy lifestyle and scientific medical assistance, it is expected to achieve effective weight control, prevent the occurrence of metabolic syndrome, and have a healthy and happy life.