Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Prevention of Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Literature Review and Resource for Chiropractors

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this review is to summarize current information for chiropractors on Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) related to prevention and health promotion.

Methods

Research staff and faculty of a doctor of chiropractic program performed a narrative review, which included guidelines from the United States Preventative Task Force and meta-analyses. We performed a PubMed search of meta-analyses published in English between 2019 to 2024, indexed with the Medical Subject Heading “Metabolic Syndrome,” and which had free-text availability. Meta-analyses were included if they were relevant to chiropractic practice and health promotion/prevention.

Results

The PubMed search resulted in 156 citations of which 38 meta-analyses were selected for inclusion in this review. Clinical intervention strategies identified that may reduce MetS risk and negative sequelae include screening for MetS, such as measuring waist circumference, blood pressure and biomarker levels. In addition, chiropractors can support lifestyle behavior changes that may help patients lose weight such as increasing protein intake from plant-based diets, increasing physical activity, optimizing sleep and reducing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption.

Conclusions

This review summarizes current information on MetS related to prevention and health promotion. Chiropractors and other health care professionals knowledgeable of the lifestyle-related risk factors associated with MetS can use this information to better screen and manage at-risk patients.