Metabolic Syndrome Criteria

Two definitions are in common use, both selectable here.

NCEP ATP III — metabolic syndrome if at least 3 of the 5 criteria are present:

• Waist > 102 cm (men) / > 88 cm (women)
• Triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL
• HDL < 40 (men) / < 50 (women) mg/dL
• Blood pressure ≥ 130/85 mmHg
• Fasting glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL

IDF — requires central obesity (waist ≥ 94 cm men / ≥ 80 cm women, Europid values, adjustable by ethnicity) plus at least 2 of the other criteria (triglycerides, HDL, blood pressure, glucose, same thresholds). Being on treatment for one of these factors also counts.

The calculator shows which criteria are met, how many, and whether the chosen definition is satisfied. Meeting the criteria indicates an increased cardiometabolic risk profile, but it is not a diagnosis: a doctor must assess the full picture.

Metabolic syndrome is linked to a higher risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It brings several factors together: to explore its components see BMI, the waist-to-height/waist-to-hip ratios, non-HDL cholesterol and the insulin-resistance indices HOMA-IR and TyG.

• Waist: at end of expiration, midway between the lowest rib and the iliac crest.
• Blood pressure: at rest, seated, ideally the average of several readings.
• Triglycerides, HDL and glucose: from a fasting blood draw.

Management aims to correct the individual factors: a balanced diet, physical activity, weight loss, not smoking and, where indicated, treatment for blood pressure, glucose or lipids.

When to see a professional: if several criteria are met, consult a doctor for an overall risk assessment and a personalised plan.

• Waist thresholds vary by ethnicity (the IDF definition allows for this explicitly).
• The calculation uses cut-off values and does not account for ongoing treatment, which matters clinically.
• It is a screening tool, not a diagnosis.