I. Introduction

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been at the focus of interest in recent years. The general lifestyle has recently changed considerably: the level of physical activity has decreased while the calorie intake has increased. These changes have led to obesity and to the development of the MetS. The MetS is associated with an increased risk of various chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM, a 5-fold increase in risk) or cardiovascular diseases (CVDs, a 2-fold increase in risk). Individuals with the MetS are at a 2-4-fold higher risk of stroke, heart attack and death. The MetS is considered to be a primary risk factor for thrombotic diseases.

The MetS is a cluster of abnormalities of various metabolic pathways.

However, frequently only one of the symptoms is treated rather than the overall disease. The preferred treatment of patients with the MetS is dieting combined with physical activity.

In view of the above situation, it was regarded as important to produce a book about the pathophysiological background of the causes and risk factors associated with the MetS. This was achieved in collaboration with my co-authors Krisztina Kedvesné Kupai PhD and Anikó Pósa PhD in the frame of Social Renewal Operational Programme (SROP=TÁMOP) TÁMOP-4.1.2.E-13/1/KONV-2013-0011, New generation development of sport scientific trainings and contents, domestic and international network development and socialization at University of Szeged. We set out to produce a book suitable for students who have a certain level of relevant knowledge, including students in physical education, biology or medicine. The Figures and Tables are designed to help an understanding of the physiological and pathophysiological background of the MetS.

Csaba Varga, PhD