Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Metabolic Syndrome Management and Attitudes Toward Using Digital Health Tools in Two
Asma Ali1, Ifeanyichukwu Ogbuiyi-Chima1, Mohammad Faisal1
1School of Public Health, University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, United States.
JMIR Research Protocols
|June 24, 2026
Summary
This study explores factors affecting metabolic syndrome (MetS) self-management, identifying barriers and facilitators. It also assesses attitudes towards digital health tools for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Chronic disease management
- Public health
- Digital health interventions
Background:
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of risk factors including obesity, high blood pressure, and abnormal glucose/lipid levels.
- MetS significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore multilevel factors influencing self-management of metabolic syndrome (MetS).
- To identify barriers and facilitators to effective MetS self-management.
- To assess attitudes towards digital health tools for supporting MetS management.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive study at two international sites (US and Saudi Arabia).
- Purposive sampling with maximum variation for 20-30 participants per site.
- Semi-structured interviews and abductive thematic analysis using NVivo 15.
Main Results:
- Thematic analysis will examine barriers and facilitators to MetS self-management.
- Participant views on digital health tools for MetS management will be analyzed.
- Study enrollment begins August 2026.
Conclusions:
- Findings will provide culturally-informed insights into chronic disease management.
- Results can guide the development of equitable, context-sensitive digital health interventions for MetS.
