Lipid-lowering therapy opportunities in young men with metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a combination of risk factors such as abdominal obesity, arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Despite traditionally being associated with older populations, the prevalence of MS is rising among young men, making the issue particularly relevant. Objective. To evaluate the potential of lipid-lowering therapy in young men with metabolic syndrome. Materials and methods . A prospective observational cohort study included 46 men aged 25–45 years diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, divided into two comparable groups. The 6-month observation period focused on patients with controlled hypertension and elevated atherogenic cholesterol levels. Group 1 received pitavastatin at a dose of 2 mg/day; Group 2 received omega‑3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ethyl esters (1000 mg capsules containing 46% EPA and 38% DHA), 2000 mg/day. Clinical and laboratory parameters, adherence to lipid-lowering therapy, and psychosomatic status were assessed. Results. Lipid profile analysis under controlled blood pressure revealed a statistically significant difference in total cholesterol levels between Group 2 (5.31 mmol/L) and Group 1 (4.79 mmol/L). Group 1 also showed lower LDL–C levels (2.37 mmol/L vs. 2.71 mmol/L), though the difference was not statistically significant. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) was elevated in both groups (mean ±5.60 mg/L), but was significantly lower in Group 1 after pitavastatin therapy (2.21 mg/L). Glucose levels were significantly lower in Group 1 (4.1 mmol/L vs. 5.5 mmol/L). Adherence was notably higher in Group 1: 66.32% [42%; 82%] vs. 32.18% [45%; 71%]. Subclinical anxiety was prevalent (n = 32), though no statistically significant difference was found between groups. Conclusion. The efficacy and safety of pitavastatin contribute to improved patient adherence, which is crucial for long-term management of metabolic syndrome and the prevention of complications. Integrating therapy that addresses both metabolic and psychosomatic factors leads to substantial health benefits for young men with MS, reducing atherosclerosis risk and enhancing quality of life.