Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is traditionally associated with obesity, yet recent epidemiological studies indicate a significant prevalence among non-obese adults, particularly in South Asian populations. These individuals often exhibit central adiposity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and subclinical inflammation, despite having a normal body mass index (BMI). Such “lean MetS” patients are frequently underdiagnosed, placing them at elevated risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and hepatic steatosis.
Clinical assessment should move beyond BMI alone. Waist-to-hip ratio, visceral fat estimation via imaging, fasting insulin, HbA1c, lipid profiling, and inflammatory markers like hs-CRP can improve early detection. Evidence supports that early lifestyle modification, including targeted nutritional interventions and structured exercise, can significantly…
