[Metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus and vulnerability: a syndemic approach of chronic diseases]

Rev Med Suisse. 2010 Nov 17;6(271):2205-8.
[Article in French]

Abstract

The pandemic metabolic syndrome is generally attributed to our lifestyle. The current therapeutic strategies are centered on the behavioral changes and pharmacotherapy. A deeply analysis reveals the importance of the socio-cultural determinants with a "dose-responses effect according to the socio-economic level. The "syndemic" theory, which puts at the same level the socio-cultural environment, the behaviors and biomedecine, suggests a more holistic approach. This theory suggests introducing other partners of care, such cultural-mediators and welfare workers trained in the care, to have finally an approach centered on the roots of the causes. The healthcare networks centered on the management of the costs of health should not forget the socio-cultural dimension, unless wanting to select the good cases.

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease
  • Culture
  • Delivery of Health Care / standards
  • Humans
  • Life Style
  • Metabolic Syndrome / drug therapy
  • Metabolic Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Metabolic Syndrome / prevention & control
  • Metabolic Syndrome / psychology
  • Social Behavior*