Metabolic syndrome and its component factors in adult obese individuals attending an obesity clinic in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Kerala

Introduction: Obesity is fundamental to the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) as it appears to precede the emergence of the other MetS risk factors. Aim: The objective of this study was to calculate the frequency of MetS among obese individuals attending the obesity clinic in a tertiary care center in Kerala and also to review the association of various anthropometric and biochemical factors of MetS among obese individuals in this region of the country. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed among ninety obese individuals who have attended obesity clinic in a tertiary care center in Kerala. Anthropometric measurements such as height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist to hip ratio were recorded. Lipid profile and fasting plasma glucose level were estimated. MetS was diagnosed using the International Diabetic Federation criteria, and the study population was grouped as those with and without MetS. Results: The frequency of MetS among the study population was 61.1%. The mean age of the study population was 32 years. Parameters such as BMI, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose level, and triglycerides showed statistically significant association with MetS in obese individuals. Conclusion: Since all the components of MetS are modifiable, public should be made aware of this condition, and they should be advised regarding preventive measures.