The components of the metabolic syndrome have been extensively defined, studied, and debated. The prevalence has risen recently and affected patients use more health care resources, and face higher morbidity and mortality, resulting in an enormous economic burden. Some studies have shown health care costs to be as much as 20% higher than those accrued by patients without the risk factors. Patients with the metabolic syndrome have been shown to have greater drug expenditures, more frequent hospitalizations, and higher utilization of outpatient and physician services. When considered alone, the individual risk factor components account for a substantial economic burden to patients, health plans, and society as a whole. The diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome as a condition may encourage appropriate management and thus help prevent disease progression and reduce the considerable economic impact.