Metabolic syndrome is unfortunately common. Weight is a significant influence on the development of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is present in a small percentage of people with normal body weight, while it is present in a significant percentage of individuals who are overweight, and a majority of individuals considered obese. Adults who continue to gain five or more pounds per year raise their risk of developing metabolic syndrome. As is true with many medical conditions, genetics and the environment both play important roles in the development of the metabolic syndrome. Genetic factors influence each individual component of the syndrome, and the syndrome itself. A family history that includes type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and early heart disease greatly increases the chance that an individual will develop the metabolic syndrome. Environmental issues such as low activity level, sedentary lifestyle, and progressive weight gain also contribute significantly to the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome. Obesity is likely the greatest risk factor for metabolic syndrome; however other risk factors of concern include: