Metabolic Syndrome and its components among Qatari population

Metabolic Syndrome (MeS) is a cluster of abnormalities including impaired glucose metabolism, central obesity, dyslipidemia and hypertension. The MeS has not been widely studied among the Arab populations, but the data available suggests that it is an increasingly common problem. Prevalence of MeS and its associated components are not available in Qatar. To estimate the prevalence of MeS and its associated components among the Qatari population and to determine its associated risk factors, a cross-sectional study was carried out among Qatari adults aged 20 years and above. Face to face interviewing using a structured questionnaire followed by laboratory tests were conducted. MeS was defined using the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) criteria as well as the International Diabetes Federation criteria (IDF). The crude prevalence rate of MeS according to ATP III criteria and IDF criteria were 26.4 and 34.0%, respectively. The age-standardised prevalence of the MeS according to ATP III was 27.7% (95% CI 23.3?32.0%), (23.6% among men (95% CI 19.5?27.7%) and 32.6% among women (95% CI 28.0?37.2%)) and according to IDF criteria, the age standardised prevalence was 35.4% (95% CI 30.7?40.0%), 38.7% (95% CI 34.0?43.5%) for women and 35.8% (95% CI 31.2?40.5%) for men. Age, Body Mass Index and HbA1c were significantly associated with MeS after adjustment for a number relevant variables including; gender, marital status, educational level, exercise, smoking, etc. Prevalence of the MeS in Qatar is considerably higher than anticipated. A well-designed health education programmes to increase the awareness of the public as well as healthcare providers are highly recommended. The programme should focus on the risk factors and the health consequences of MeS.