Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components among Saudi Young Adults 18 - 30 Years of Age

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a cluster of established cardiovascular risk factors that collectively increase predisposition to major chronic diseases, including heart diseases and diabetes mellitus. Young adults can be affected by MS or any of its components which predispose them to its complications later in their life. Hence early detection of MS and its components can be of help in preventing or controlling its adverse consequences among young adults. Materials and Methods: A total of 1354 Saudis aged 18 - 30 was randomly selected from 20 regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Anthropometrics were collected, and fasting blood samples were collected to ascertain fasting blood glucose and lipid profile. Components of full MS and its components according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) were used in this study. Results: Metabolic syndrome prevalence was 12% and was significantly higher among males, advancing age and government employees and unemployed subjects but not according to income or education levels MS was significantly higher among current smokers, subjects with low physical activity level, but not significant according to dietary habits in terms of combined fruits and vegetables consumption. Low levels of High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) were the most frequent component in both males and females. Both waist circumference (WC) and low levels of HDL were much higher among females. Significant predictors included male gender, advancing age, lower level of physical activity and current smoking. Conclusion: The prevalence of MS is 12% in young adults. Low HDL is the most prevalent component of MS in young adults and thus may also be the first detectable component of MS in many young adults. Early identification of MS components could lead to targeted interventions to prevent the development of the syndrome, and thus reduce cardiovascular disease risk in later life.