V.2. Age

Various studies have demonstrated that the frequency of MetS increases with age. The incidence increases from 6.7% at 20-29 years to 47% at 60-69 years in men, and from 9.2% to 64.4% in women. There have been no comprehensive studies on children, it is suggested that the 1.2% rises above 60%.  

Different definitions have been put forward for the MetS in childhood.

Between the ages of 6 and 10 years, obesity is defined by the waist circumference being >90% of the reference value. Other tests are performed in the event of familial obesity, the MetS, T2DM, dyslipidemia or high BP.

Between the ages of 10 and 16 years, obesity is defined by the waist circumference being >90% of the reference value, a fasting TG level >1.7 mmol/l, a fasting HDL level <1.3 mmol/l, and a BP >90% of the values typical of these ages (systolic value >130, diastolic value >85 mmHg). For patients older than 16 years, the adult definitions are used.  Children are characterized by the peripheral insulin resistance, while adults are characterized by other factors too.