From the Guidelines
Metabolic diseases are disorders that disrupt normal metabolism, the process by which the body converts food into energy and building blocks for cells, and can be characterized by a cluster of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, including raised blood pressure, dyslipidemia, raised fasting glucose, and central obesity, as defined by the International Diabetes Federation and other organizations 1. These conditions occur when abnormal chemical reactions in the body alter the normal metabolic process, either by disrupting the breakdown of nutrients or affecting the body's ability to process certain substances. Common examples include:
- Diabetes mellitus, which affects glucose metabolism
- Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, which alter metabolic rate
- Phenylketonuria (PKU), which impairs protein metabolism
- Disorders of lipid metabolism like familial hypercholesterolemia Many metabolic diseases are inherited genetic disorders where enzymes necessary for specific metabolic processes are missing or defective. Others develop due to organ dysfunction, such as liver or pancreatic disease, or from lifestyle factors like obesity. Treatment approaches vary widely depending on the specific condition but may include:
- Dietary modifications
- Enzyme replacement therapy
- Medication to correct imbalances
- Management of symptoms Early diagnosis is crucial for many metabolic diseases, as prompt intervention can prevent serious complications including organ damage, developmental delays, or life-threatening metabolic crises, and according to the European Society of Hypertension and the European Society of Cardiology, lifestyle modifications, such as a low-caloric diet and physical exercise, can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by almost 60% 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Definition of Metabolic Disease
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multiplex modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and other health outcomes 2
- It is a cluster of anomalies, including abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus or glucose intolerance, and hypertriglyceridemia 3
- MetS comprises a cluster of risk factors that includes central obesity, dyslipidemia, impaired glucose homeostasis, and hypertension 4
Characteristics of Metabolic Disease
- Abdominal obesity is a hallmark of MetS, highlighting dysfunctional fat tissue and increased risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes 5
- Insulin resistance is a driving force behind MetS, disrupting various molecular pathways and leading to a range of disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease 5
- Atherogenic dyslipidemia, characterized by high levels of small, low-dense lipoprotein (LDL) particles and triglycerides, alongside low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), is a major player in MetS 5
Risk Factors and Prevention
- Lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, influence the complexity and progression of MetS 5
- Genetic alteration also plays a role in the development of MetS 5
- Preventive measures, including a healthy lifestyle, weight reduction, and pharmacological agents, can help control MetS 3, 6
- Early detection of MetS can be achieved through metabolomic profiling, and understanding the fundamental pathogenesis of MetS is essential for developing effective strategies for prevention and management 5