Publication Details
Abstract
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a group of cardiovascular risk factors caused by an inflammatory and insulin resistant state that raises the chance of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and many other cardiovascular diseases.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS and their specific associated factors based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria among adults in Al-Basra Governorate, southern Iraq.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out at the Al-Fiaha Specialized Diabetes, Endocrine, and Metabolism Center (FDEMC), which required a time frame from October 2nd, 2022, to May 1st, 2023. The total sample size was 476. Data was collected via a pre-tested questionnaire after obtaining ethical permission. All patient’s information was acquired through direct interviews and FDEMC's digital records, which managed the data for each patient using a Microsoft Access program and an internal network system.
Results: The prevalence of MetS was (51.9%) higher in females (57.5%) than in males (42.5%). MetS was more prevalent in age group 50-59 (29.1%), urban areas (71.7%), primary education (41.7%), housewives (49.4%), married participants (85.0%), smokers (12.6%), systolic blood pressure (35.2%), diastolic blood pressure (41.7%), and diabetes (45.7%). All anthropometric measurements demonstrate a statistical difference except for height. All lipid profile shows a statistical difference between participants (P values <0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of MetS was relatively high when using IDF criteria. Old age, female gender, marriage, low education, high diastolic pressure, a large waist circumference, and reduced high density lipoprotein, are the most important risk factors of MetS.