Risk Factors

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The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Metabolic Syndrome. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Metabolic Syndrome (online CE course)
Risk Factors

According to the American Heart Association, the risk factors for metabolic syndrome include:
  • Abdominal obesity: waist circumference greater than 35 inches/88 cm (women) or 40 inches/102 cm (men)
  • Dyslipidemia: high triglycerides greater than 150 mg/dL or 1.70 mmol/L
  • Decreased high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol: less than 50 mg/dL in women and less than 40 mg/dL in men
  • Elevated blood pressure: greater than or equal to 130/85 mm Hg
  • Elevated fasting plasma glucose: greater than or equal to 100 mg/dL
Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed if an individual meets three or more of the criteria.
1. American Heart Association. "What is Metabolic Syndrome?" American Heart Association, March 25, 2021. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/metabolic-syndrome/about-metabolic-syndrome