Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex cluster of metabolic abnormalities characterized by central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired glucose metabolism. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between uric acid levels and MetS, and commercial drivers are exposed to unique occupational hazards that may predispose them to MetS and hyperuricemia. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of MetS and its relationship with serum uric acid among commercial drivers in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among commercial drivers in Ado-Ekiti. Relevant information was obtained with a questionnaire, and anthropometry and blood pressure were measured. Fasting plasma glucose and lipid profiles were determined by the standard protocol. MetS was determined with the harmonized criteria. Bivariate correlation and Chi-square were used to determine the relationship between serum uric acid and MetS and its components. There were 106 participants with a median age (interquartile range) of 50 (11) years, with no difference between those with or without MetS. More than 70% of the participants drank alcohol and 75 (70.8%) participants had hyperuricemia. There was no significant correlation between serum uric acid and components of MetS. The prevalence of MetS among all the participants was 21.7% (23/106), with no difference among men with normal uric acid (25.8%) and those with elevated uric acid (20.0%), P = 0.509. Similarly, there was no statistical difference in the prevalence of the components of MetS between the two groups. The prevalence of MetS among the commercial drivers was high, with no difference among men with or without hyperuricemia. Given the importance of this group of people, a system-level public health approach should be adopted to promote a healthy lifestyle to save the lives of the populace.
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