Insulin resistance has emerged as one of the most significant global health threats of the 21st century. Often asymptomatic for years, it serves as the metabolic foundation for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), cardiovascular disease, and multiple cancers. Despite its clinical and socioeconomic burden, insulin resistance remains underdiagnosed and underestimated. This review synthesizes recent epidemiological trends, pathophysiological mechanisms, environmental contributors, and long-term global risks, while highlighting urgent priorities for prevention and policy intervention.

Insulin resistance, metabolic pandemic, global health, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, adipose tissue dysfunction, NAFLD, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, lifestyle factors, epidemiology, cardiovascular risk, hyperinsulinemia, public health policy, metabolic disorders.

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