METABOLIC SYNDROME AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK IN YOUNG INDIVIDUALS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF EARLY MECHANISMS AND PREVENTIVE IMPLICATIONS

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MS), traditionally attributed to adults, has been increasingly observed in young populations, anticipating early cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to synthesize evidence on the association between MS and subclinical cardiovascular risk markers in youth. An integrative literature review was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE and BVS (LILACS, SciELO), covering studies published between 2015 and 2025 in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. Eligible studies included adolescents and young adults (10–25 years) with a recognized MS definition and at least one subclinical outcome, such as carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT), arterial stiffness (PWV), or endothelial dysfunction (FMD). Twenty-seven studies met the eligibility criteria. Most demonstrated significant associations between MS and increased cIMT, impaired FMD, and elevated inflammatory/metabolic biomarkers (hs-CRP, HOMA-IR). Variability among diagnostic criteria influenced the magnitude of effects. Methodological quality was assessed using JBI/NOS. MS in young individuals is associated with early vascular and inflammatory alterations, highlighting the importance of early screening and preventive interventions to mitigate long-term cardiovascular risk.