METABOLIC SYNDROME IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
High prevalence of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents is seriuous problem of modern society. In order to prevent development of possible complications (cardiovascular diseases and diabetes mellitus type 2) later in life, early recognition of children at risk for developing metabolic syndrome is of great importance. Previous differences in criteria for diagnosis of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents have been significantly decreased by new criteria issued by the International Diabetes Federation. From the aspect of prevention, key elements are proper nutrition and regular physical activity. In a view of treatment recommendations, initial steps should be regulation of energy balance in the diet and increase in physical activity; the drug treatment is reserved for patients with high risk of complications.