【Common Diseases】Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic Syndrome: A Complete Guide to Treatment in Hong Kong | Diet, Exercise, Medication, and Lifestyle Management
Hello everyone, today I'd like to discuss a health crisis that many Hong Kongers are unknowingly suffering from: metabolic syndrome . According to the Hong Kong Department of Health, with the increasing prevalence of Westernized diets, high work pressures, and a lack of exercise among urbanites, metabolic syndrome is becoming increasingly common among middle-aged and elderly people in Hong Kong, and is even becoming more common among younger people.
Metabolic syndrome isn't a single disease, but rather a collection of metabolic abnormalities that significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes . Many people experience no obvious symptoms, yet their bodies are already sending warning signals. We've compiled a comprehensive guide to metabolic syndrome treatment , drawing on information from the Hong Kong Hospital Authority (HA), the Hong Kong Society of Cardiologists, and the World Health Organization (WHO).
What is metabolic syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome refers to the simultaneous presence of multiple metabolic abnormalities. Common diagnostic criteria (based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the Hong Kong medical community):
Must have:
- Central obesity (abdominal obesity) : Waist circumference ≥ 90 cm for men and ≥ 80 cm for women (Asian standard)
Plus any two of the following:
- Hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥ 130 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85 mmHg, or taking antihypertensive medication)
- Elevated fasting blood sugar (≥ 5.6 mmol/L) or diagnosed with diabetes
- High triglycerides (≥ 1.7 mmol/L)
- Low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL): < 1.03 mmol/L for men and < 1.29 mmol/L for women
High-risk groups in Hong Kong
- Middle-aged or older people
- Obesity or excess weight, especially excess abdominal fat
- Family history of diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia
- Lack of exercise, long-term sitting in the office
- A diet high in sugar, fat, and salt
- Women who have had gestational diabetes
Principles of treatment for metabolic syndrome
Treatment for metabolic syndrome is not simply a matter of taking a single medication. Instead, it requires comprehensive lifestyle changes and targeted management of each abnormality . Treatment goals outlined by the Hong Kong Hospital Authority and international guidelines include:
- Reduce belly fat
- Control blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipids
- Prevent complications such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes
1. Lifestyle changes (core treatment)
This is the first step all doctors take when treating metabolic syndrome in Hong Kong and the foundation for long-term health maintenance.
Dietary management
- Control total calories : Aim for a 5–10% weight loss (especially reducing belly fat)
- Less sugar, less salt, and less oil : Reduce sugary drinks, processed foods, and fried foods
- High in fiber : Eat more vegetables, fruits (low in sugar), and whole grains
- High-quality protein : fish, lean meat, beans, instead of high-fat red meat
- Choose healthy fats : olive oil, nuts, avocado
- Limit alcohol : Excessive drinking can increase blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar
Hong Kong's public hospitals arrange nutritionists to provide personalized dietary advice to high-risk patients, while private medical services can be more flexible in arranging multiple follow-up visits and menu adjustments.
exercise plan
- At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week (brisk walking, swimming, cycling)
- Resistance training (dumbbells, resistance bands) at least 2–3 times per week
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time and get up and move around for 5 minutes every hour
weight management
- Weight loss is the key to improving waist circumference, blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipids
- Some private clinics in Hong Kong offer medical weight loss programs, including meal replacements, behavioral therapy, and medication.
2. Drug treatment (for various abnormalities)
When lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medications for different problems.
Control blood pressure
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs (eg, Perindopril, Losartan)
- Calcium channel blockers (such as amlodipine)
- Diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide)
Control blood sugar
- Metformin : Improves insulin sensitivity
- Other oral hypoglycemic drugs or injectable GLP-1 receptor agonists (if patients have diabetes)
Control blood lipids
- Statins : Lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL)
- Fenofibrate : Lowers triglycerides
3. Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
- Smoking significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease
- Support is available through the Hong Kong Quitline (1833 183) and public and private smoking cessation clinics.
4. Regular inspection and follow-up
- Blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood lipids are checked every 3–6 months
- Waist circumference and weight monitoring
- People with diabetes need to check their kidney function and fundus every year.
Treatment Process in Hong Kong (Public vs Private)
| project | public medical care | Private medical care |
|---|---|---|
| Initial examination | Doctors refer blood tests, waist circumference, and blood pressure | Immediate inspection and same-day report |
| Diet and exercise guidance | Nutritionist lectures or one-on-one guidance | Personalized menus and sports coaching |
| Drug treatment | Step-by-step prescription according to HA guidelines | New drugs can be used more quickly |
| Follow-up frequency | Long waiting time | Can be monthly or bimonthly |
Editor's warm summary
Metabolic syndrome is a "silent killer" because it may not present with obvious symptoms, yet it acts as an accelerator for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. In Hong Kong, treatment focuses on lifestyle changes , reducing abdominal fat, and taking necessary medications to control blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipids. We remind everyone that early intervention can reverse or even eliminate metabolic syndrome, but if delayed, the risks accumulate year by year.
This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles
