Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated diseases. Study in a general adult population of Galicia.

Abstract

Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a constellation of risk factors and metabolic abnormalities characterized by insulin resistance, central obesity, hypertension, glucose metabolism abnormalities and dyslipidemia. It is associated with an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Objective: To know the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, associated cardiovascular diseases and its evolution in a rural community in Galicia.

Material and methods: Cross-sectional study in two sections: i) 469 participants in 2000; ii) 1516 in 2013-2015; chosen by random sampling stratified by decades of life, aged between 18 and 91 years. Variables: structured questionnaire with demographic data, chronic diseases, drugs, tobacco and alcohol. Laboratory tests (glucose, fractionated cholesterol and triglycerides), electrocardiogram and blood pressure. International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short form). To define MS, the criteria recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III were followed.

Results: The weight prevalence of MS was 19.4% (95% CI: 17.6-21.5) in 2015, lower than the 21.8% in 2000. The prevalence of ischemic heart disease, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, and cerebrovascular disease were 4.2%, 1.7%, 1.8%, and 2.4%, respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and physical activity, an association was found between metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is a common condition in the population of study that does not seem to have increased its prevalence in recent years, and is significantly associated with cardiovascular disease.