METABOLIC SYNDROME: PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS, DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA, AND CARDIOVASCULAR IMPACT IN THE ADULT POPULATION

Abstract

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial clinical condition characterized by the association between visceral obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and glycemic alterations, being directly related to increased cardiovascular risk and morbidity and mortality in the adult population. Objectives: To analyze the pathophysiological aspects of metabolic syndrome, the main diagnostic criteria, and its cardiovascular repercussions, highlighting the metabolic mechanisms involved and the importance of early diagnosis. Methodology: This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive-exploratory approach, carried out through systematic searches in the PubMed database, using articles published between 2021 and 2026 in Portuguese and English. Results and discussion: The analyzed studies demonstrated that insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, visceral obesity, and endothelial dysfunction are the main pathophysiological mechanisms associated with metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, a strong association was observed between metabolic syndrome and the development of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and other systemic complications. Conclusion:Metabolic syndrome represents an important public health issue due to its high prevalence and cardiovascular impact, making early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle habits, and multidisciplinary follow-up essential for preventing cardiometabolic complications.