What is the definition of metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is defined as a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Specifically, it includes abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and abnormal lipid levels, such as high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol. This comprehensive definition highlights the interplay between various risk factors that collectively contribute to cardiovascular and metabolic health issues.

Understanding metabolic syndrome is crucial because it is not just one condition but a combination that signals a higher risk for more serious health problems. Abdominal obesity serves as a key indicator, while the combination of the elevated metabolic parameters enhances the risk profile of the individual.

In contrast to this correct definition, the other options focus on singular conditions or unrelated medical states that do not capture the essence of metabolic syndrome. For instance, conditions like chronic kidney disease and diabetes (as mentioned in the first choice) do not represent the syndrome itself but rather individual health issues that could be consequences of or associated with metabolic syndrome. Similarly, defining metabolic syndrome only by elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels overlooks the broader scope of risk factors that need to be addressed together.