Metabolic Syndrome: A Huge Cost
A recent study undertaken by Medco Health Systems (via AP) has shown the enormous cost to those suffering from metabolic syndrome (also called Syndrome X).
Annual prescription costs for people 20 and older with metabolic syndrome averaged $4,116 last year, 4.2 times the average amount spent on drugs for that age group...
Metabolic syndrome has become more prevalent over the last decade:
Metabolic syndrome is caused by the body's inability to use insulin efficiently, and the hallmark of the condition is excessive abdominal fat. Patients also have two or more related conditions, including high blood pressure, low levels of good cholesterol, high levels of blood fats called triglycerides, and high blood sugar. Many have diabetes or will eventually.
Perhaps it shows us that money is better spent preventing some of these health problems (i.e. paying for better nutrition and education).
Written By J. Foster
Perhaps it shows us that money is better spent preventing some of these health problems (i.e. paying for better nutrition and education).
I definately agree. Prevention and addressing the cause of illnesses (metabolic syndrome, obesity, etc.) is much more important than spending money and exhausting research on treatments. And this doesn't apply just for weight problems, but for all illnesses and disease. Modern medicine needs a major overhaul; but the question is, will the drug companies who control one half of the world's economy allow it to happen? There is much less money to be made from a society based on lifestyle and prevention. Maybe they will start to open their eyes when the human life expenctancy goes down to 50.
ReplyThe best way to recover from metabolic syndrome is to lead a more active lifestyle and to eat properly. This will not cost more. The chance to live a longer, healthier life is much more important than any monetary value.
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