Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Risk Factors among Adults in a Rural Area of Dakshina Kannada District

Metabolic syndrome (MS) consists of interconnected factors responsible for increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and development of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Early identification and treatment of components of MS leads to improved cardiovascular outcomes.

To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adults >18 years of age and to study the various socio-demographic and behavioral factors associated with MS.

This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 280 adults of >18 years in a rural area of Dakshina Kannada district. Probability proportional to size and random sampling was used to select the study participants. Data was collected by interviews, anthropometry, blood investigations.

Prevalence of MS was 33.9% and majority were females (71.8%). The mean age was 49.35 (±15.22) years. The prevalence (raised levels/on treatment) of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia were 56.79% (systolic), 38.93% (diastolic), 38.57% (raised triglycerides), and 45% respectively. Majority of the subjects were obese (52.9%). Participants of 18-49 years age group had 2.30 times higher odds of having MS than ≥50 years age group (P value < 0.001). Female gender and low socio-economic status had 1.49- and 1.31-times higher odds of having MS respectively. Family history of diabetes and presence of co-morbidities had 1.20- and 1.02-times higher odds of developing MS.

There is a high prevalence of MS in rural areas. Intervention based on lifestyle modifications needs to be developed.