Review: Treatment of lipids to reduce cardiovascular risk among people with the metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes

Abstract

he metabolic syndrome is present in approximately 20% of general populations in developed countries and in approximately 80% of people with type 2 diabetes. High triglyceride levels, low high-density cholesterol levels and central obesity are three of the five features of the metabolic syndrome and contribute to the increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among people with the metabolic syndrome. Lifestyle interventions and treatment with statins reduce risk of CVD but absolute risk of cardiovascular events among high-risk populations remains high. This article reviews the options for treating the atherogenic dyslipidaemia associated with the metabolic syndrome.