Comparison of metabolic syndrome prevalence among Igbos using two definitions-a population-based study in Enugu

Background: Metabolic syndrome refers to the co-occurrence of several known cardiovascular risk factors, including insulin resistance, obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia and hypertension. It’s prevalence in a given population varies with definition used.
Objectives: This study aimed at comparing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Enugu metropolis using two well established definitions and to ascertain the concordance between them.
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 IDF and the NCEP-ATP III definitions. Stratified random sampling technique was used in the selection of participants. The data obtained were coded and analyzed into frequencies and percentages using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Chi-square (x) test was used to compare categorical variables for associations while Cohen kappa coefficient was used to determine concordance. Statistical significance is set at p<0.05 and 95% confidence interval
Result: The study showed metabolic syndrome prevalence of 24.09% and 23.02% using IDF and NCEP definitions, higher female prevalence was seen compare to male with both definitions which is (M=8.78%; F=36.00%) and (M=9.76%; F=33.71%) for IDF and NCEP respectively. Increase in prevalence with age was also noted which was 5.61%%, 9.24% and 68.00% using IDF definition and 5.28%, 9.24% and 64.00% using NCEP for age groups 18-30years, 31-50years and 51-75years respectively.
Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is already a public health menace in Enugu metropolis with prevalence that depends on the definition used however, spike in prevalence was seen after the age of 50.