Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated risk factors among geriatric population living in a high altitude region of rural Uttarakhand, India

INTRODUCTION: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is responsible for 2.5-fold increase in cardiovascular mortality and a 5-fold higher risk of developing diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted during 2015–2016 in District Nainital. A list of all villages was developed. From this list, thirty villages were identified using population proportionate to size sampling method. From each village, thirty geriatric subjects (GSs) were selected. The study population included 979 GSs aged 60 years and above. The data were collected on anthropometry, blood pressure, blood glucose, and lipid profile from all the enrolled subjects. The prevalence of MetS was estimated using International Diabetes Federation criteria. Univariate and multivariate analysis was done to identify factors associated with MetS. RESULTS: The prevalence of MetS was found to be 28.6%. Step-wise multivariate logistic regression analysis found that female gender, higher income, and body mass index ≥25 were significant and independent risk factors of MetS amongst GP. CONCLUSION: There is a need for screening of GP living in high altitude region so that efforts can be initiated to prevent complications of MetS.