The metabolic syndrome is a syndrome with clustering of various factors as hypertension, central obesity, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, hyperlipidemia and hyperuricemia. In females, it can be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome. It is an epidemic with increasing prevalence which has lead to an increased incidence of morbidity and mortality in this century. It may lead to type 2 diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular strokes and renal failure. It is caused by genetic and environmental factors, as lifestyle, diet, lack of physical activity, inflammation, perinatal nutrition and many other factors. Many of these factors, fortunately, are correctable; therefore, it is worthwhile to focus extensive efforts on preventing this disease rather than to treat it. In this essay, there is an overall view of the most recent definitions, pathogenesis, updates on the various components and the most recent ways of treatment of this syndrome. Hopefully, it can provide a useful summary which can serve as a reference for the most recent advances in this syndrome, the incidence of which can dramatically be reduced by following a healthy lifestyle (especially diet and exercise), proper follow up and regular check-ups