Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in a Population in the Algerian Sahara

Developing countries, including Algeria, are experiencing an increase in obesity, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease due to changes in diet and lifestyle.

To assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its associated cardiometabolic risk factors among 283 adults in the commune of Aoulef, Algeria.

A descriptive study was conducted between 2015 and 2016 on a random sample of 283 individuals aged 30 to 64 in the commune of Aoulef, located in the far south of Algeria, in the heart of the Sahara. This study included clinical, anthropometric, and biological examinations and used the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III criteria to identify cases of metabolic syndrome.

The study found that the prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 18.4%, with rates increasing with age. Women consistently showed a higher prevalence across all age groups (P<.0001), particularly for conditions like abdominal obesity (P<.001), hyperglycemia (P<.009), and low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, especially among younger women (P<.001). High triglyceride levels were more common in men (P<.001), whereas hypertension increased with age in both sexes (P<.001). The study identified age and marital status as significant risk factors. Individuals aged 50 to 59 were 3 times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome, with the risk quadrupling for women. Additionally, those who were widowed or divorced were also found to be more vulnerable.

This study emphasizes the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in southern Algeria, marked by high rates of abdominal obesity and hypertension. Understanding the relationship between this syndrome and its sociodemographic and lifestyle risk factors is crucial for developing effective public health strategies.