Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in rural elderly of Asian Indian origin.

OBJECTIVES

Virtually no studies have been undertaken to investigate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) among the rural elderly in India. The aim of the present study was to identify the effects of sex and age on body fat distribution, blood pressure (BP), and metabolic variables as well as to look at the prevalence of MS and related phenotypes by age-groups and sex.

METHODS

A total of 312 participants aged ≥55 years took part in the present cross-sectional study. All the participants were grouped into: Group I (55-59 years); Group II (60-64 years); Group III (65-69 years); and Group IV (≥70 years). Anthropometric measures were collected using standard techniques. Metabolic profiles and blood pressure were also measured.

RESULTS

MANOVA revealed significant sex and age group effects on percent body fat, trunk extremity ratio, and diastolic BP. Significant sex effects were evident for BMI, waist-hip ratio, waist-height ratio, total cholesterol, and HDL. The overall prevalence of MS was found to be 28.2% with a higher prevalence in females (36.9%) as compared to males (23.9%).

CONCLUSION

It seems reasonable to argue that MS is considerably high in the rural elderly of Asian Indian origin and early intervention is warranted to avoid further escalation in cardiovascular disease.