Overweight, the major determinant of metabolic syndrome among industrial workers in Kerala, India: Results of a cross-sectional study

Abstract

AimTo determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of metabolic syndrome (MS) among industrial workers in Kerala, India. Materials and methodsWe measured fasting plasma glucose (FPG), triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol, waist circumference, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure among 2287 industrial workers (mean age 46 years, men 70%) from selected industries of two southern most Kerala districts using standard protocol in 2009. MS was defined according to international diabetes federation (IDF), Adult Treatment Panel (ATP-III) and American Heart Association(AHA)/National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) criteria (Harmonization). Age-standardized prevalence of MS was assessed for men and women. Multivariable logistic regression models were developed to find the associated factors of MS. ResultsAge-standardized prevalence of MS was 14% (men 14%, women 15%), 19% (men 19%, women 21%) and 27% (men 30%, women 21%) as per IDF, ATP-III and Harmonization criteria respectively. Overweight adults were nine times (OR 9.41, 95% CI 7.34–12.06), twelve times (OR 11.80 CI 9.38–14.84), and four times (OR 3.56, CI 2.94–4.29) more likely to have MS compared to their counterparts according to IDF, ATP-III and Harmonization criteria respectively. Older adults and current alcohol users were more likely to have MS compared to their counterparts. Women were more likely to have MS as per IDF and ATP-III criteria. ConclusionsMS prevalence was high among Industrial workers who generally have good access to health care. Overweight and other predictors of MS need to be addressed to reduce MS prevalence in this population.