PREVALENCE OF METABOLIC SYNDROME AMONG THE PATIENTS AND STAFF OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN RANCHI, INDIA.

Objectives: The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome is rapidly increasing in India and other south Asian countries, leading to increased mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. The following study was undertaken to assess the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among the patients and staff of a tertiary care hospital in Ranchi, India. Materials and Methods: The study group comprised of 170 subjects with age group 18-60 years. The diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome was done by NCEP ATP III (National Cholesterol Education Programme Third Adult Treatment Panel) criteria. Results: The overall prevalence rate of Metabolic Syndrome was 20.6%. Among males and females the prevalence was 18.8% and 23% respectively. A high prevalence rate was observed among older age group, high socio economic group, and sedentary life style group. Hypertension, Impaired glucose tolerance, Hypertriglyceridemia, low serum HDL Cholesterol level and obesity significantly contributed to increased risk of Metabolic Syndrome. Conclusion: A high prevalence of Metabolic syndrome in this part of eastern India necessitates the early identification of cases so that preventive and corrective strategies could be deployed to prevent the occurrence of Metabolic Syndrome and its complications among individuals at risk.