Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and associated socioeconomic and demographic factors among Palestinian adults (20–65 years) at the Gaza Strip

ObjectivesMetabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifaceted syndrome and has been described as a clustering of several risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of MetS and its individual components among Palestinian adults, 20–65 years old in Gaza Strip. In addition to find any possible associations with socioeconomic and demographic factors.Material and methodsThe study sample included 230 adults aged 20–65 years. Data were collected by questionnaire interviews, anthropometrics, and biochemical analysis that included: serum glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL, and LDL. MetS was defined according to the NCEP/ATP III diagnostic criteria.ResultsOverall prevalence of MetS was 23.0% among the study subjects, with no significant differences between males (18.1%) and females (28.1%). The prevalence of MetS increased significantly with age and was associated significantly with physical activity and martial status, while no significant associations were found with household income; geographical locality; smoking; watching TV; or family history.ConclusionsAge, sex, physical activity and marital status are risk factors independently associated with MetS in the Palestinian population at the Gaza Strip. National health awareness and preventive programs should be established aiming at decreasing of MetS trends in the Palestinian population at Gaza Strip.

► Overall prevalence of MetS among Gaza Palestinian adults is 23%.
► No significant differences in prevalence of MetS between males and females.
► MetS in Gaza is associated with age, physical activity and marital status.
► No associations of MetS with income, locality, smoking, watching TV, family history.
► Palestinian health awareness and preventive programs for MetS should be adopted.