Effects of metabolic syndrome on atherosclerosis in childhood

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease of the arterial wall that starts in childhood but does not usually manifest clinically until adulthood. Its progression depends on several risk factors, most of which are components of metabolic syndrome. In this chapter, we summarize the evidence of pediatric onset of atherosclerosis and discuss its pathogenesis. We also review the effects of various components of metabolic syndrome on the development of atherosclerosis and the strategies for stratifying and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. A substantial amount of data confirms the early initiation of atherosclerosis. Therefore, earlier efforts to identify, prevent, and treat metabolic syndrome may improve the quality and length of life.