Metabolic Syndrome Among Working Adults in Eastern Ethiopia

PURPOSE: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has become a public health challenge in low-income countries due to changing lifestyle and the food environment. However, studies on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated factors are limited in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assessed the prevalence of MetS and its associated factors among working adults in eastern Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 1,164 working adults from December 2018 to February 2019. Data were collected following the World Health Organization (WHO) STEPwise approach. The data collection tools include a structured questionnaire, anthropometric, and biochemical measurements. Prevalence was calculated using International Diabetes Federation criteria. A Poisson regression model with robust variance estimation was used to investigate the independent variable’s association with MetS. An adjusted prevalence ratio with 95% confidence interval was reported to show associations. RESULTS: The prevalence of MetS was 20.1% (95% CI=17.8–22.4) among the participants. It was more prevalent among females (APR:=1.62, 95% CI=1.31–2.00), those of 35–44 years of age (APR:=3.14, 95% CI=1.19–8.28), 45–54 years of age (APR=4.42, 95% CI=1.66–11.77), and 55–64 years of age (APR=6.03, 95% CI=2.27–16.06), khat chewers (APR=1.30, 95% CI=1.06–1.60), those with 8 or more hours of sedentary behavior (APR=2.29, 95% CI=1.88–2.80), and those consuming alcohol 5–6 days per week (APR=1.81, 95% CI=1.20–2.74). The prevalence was significantly lower in those eating five or more fruits and vegetables servings per day (APR=0.04, 95% CI=0.01–0.27). CONCLUSION: A high prevalence of MetS was observed among working adults in eastern Ethiopia. Strengthening workplace health promotion programs is necessary to reduce the negative consequences of MetS in workplaces and protect productivity.