Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among Igbos in Enugu Metropolis

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome refers to the co-occurrence of several known cardiovascular risk factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia and hypertension. It is usually associated with abdominal obesity and is implicated in the development of diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases and various cancers. Objectives: This study aimed at establishing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Enugu metropolis. Method: This was a cross-sectional community-based descriptive survey carried out in Enugu Metropolis involving 469 apparently healthy adult volunteers age range 18-75 screened for metabolic syndrome using the joint interim statement (JIS) definition. Stratified random sampling technique was used in the selection of participants in this cross-sectional study. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ethical Committee of Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, in accordance with the declaration of Helsinki. The data obtained were coded and analyzed into frequencies, percentages and mean using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Chi-square (x) test was used to compare categorical variables for associations while multi-nominal logistic regression was used to examine correlates. Statistical significance is set at p<0.05 and 95% confidence interval. Result: The study shows 16.4% prevalence in the study population with higher female prevalence (Female=23%; Male=8%). Increase in prevalence with age was also noted (1.98%=18-30year; 22.73% = 31-50year; 57.14% =51-75year). Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is already a health challenge in Enugu and life style modification should be encouraged in our clinics on or before the age of 30.