Chen Y, et al. - An updated meta-analysis was conducted to assess if metabolic syndrome (MetS) influenced the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). By searching PubMed and Embase databases, relevant cohort studies were identified. An association was found between the presence of MetS and a higher incidence of HCC in males, but not females. Regardless of whether alcohol intake was adjusted, the relationship between MetS and a higher risk of HCC was consistent. Findings revealed that MetS conferred a higher risk of HCC in carriers of hepatitis B virus vs the general population, although both were significant.