Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: meta-analysis of cross-sectional studies

Metabolic syndrome is a collection of health-related conditions that lead to serious health condition. An individual with metabolic syndrome may acquire greater risk for adult-onset complications such as cardiovascular or neurological disorders. The aim of this study was to review and provide the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC). Literature searches were performed on PubMed, Google scholar, and Web of Science Core Collection for English-language articles along with national studies. The following search terms were used during search: “prevalence of metabolic syndrome in GCC,” “prevalence of metabolic syndrome in middle east,” “prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Arab,” and “prevalence of metabolic syndrome name of country.” Thirty-seven studies were selected for final review out of 132 studies. The weighted pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 27.3% with high heterogeneity (I(2)=98.94%; Cochran Q-test P<0.01). The results showed comparatively high and rising rate of metabolic syndrome in the GCC area. Preventative strategy should be considered to reduce the risk of morbidity or mortality related to metabolic syndrome.