PREVALENCE OF METABOLIC SYNDROME AMONG APPARENTLY HEALTHY ADULTS IN A RURAL COMMUNITY, IN NORTH-WESTERN NIGERIA.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of multiple metabolic abnormalities that increases the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and a resultant severe economic implication. This study assessed the burden of MetS in a Nigerian rural community setting. METHOD: This was a cross-sectional, community based study on apparently healthy subjects. A multi stage cluster sampling technique was employed to recruit the study subjects. A standardized pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain data, and blood samples from subjects were analysed using standard laboratory techniques. MetS was defined using the NCEP-ATP3 criteria. Data were analysed using STATA version II, and a p value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 450 subjects completed the study, with 38% being males, and a mean age of 40.27 ± 16.41 years. MetS was found in 116 (25.78%) of the subjects. Of these, systemic hypertension was found in 91(78.45%), while all (116) had elevated cholesterol and triglycerides. Abdominal adiposity was found in 45 (38.79%) subjects and 44 (37.93%) had Type 2 diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of MetS and its components in our studied population was high; hence the need for further large population based studies to determine its predictors in our environment.