Global Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Schizophrenia Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients with schizophrenia has significantly increased and can be associated with severe complications such as chronic diseases and mortality. Despite numerous studies, a comprehensive estimate of the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia patients is lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the global prevalence of metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia patients through a systematic review and meta-analysis. This study was conducted as a systematic review and meta-analysis based on PRISMA guidelines without time restrictions until April 1, 2024. Relevant articles were identified through searches in databases including Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), PubMed, Science Direct, Embase, and Google Scholar, using key terms combined with AND & OR operators. After removing duplicates and conducting primary and secondary screening, 12 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Data were analysed using the random-effects model in Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Version 2 software. This analysis included 12 studies with 1,953 participants. The pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 41.3% (95% CI: 28.8-55.1), with significant heterogeneity (I²: 96.3%). The highest prevalence was reported in France (79.1%) and the lowest in China (18.03%). Over one-third of patients with schizophrenia are affected by metabolic syndrome. Hence, greater attention should be paid to the prevention and reduction of complications and mortality associated with metabolic syndrome in schizophrenia patients.