Risk factors of metabolic syndrome among hypertensive patients at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Southern Ethiopia

Background: Data regarding the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among hypertensive patients in Ethiopia is very scarce, and the nature and the burden of MetS among these patients has not been well investigated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the pattern and risk factors of MetS in hypertensive patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hawassa University comprehensive specialized hospital from September 2015 to June 2016. Data on socio-demographic, clinical and anthropometric characteristics were collected from 238 hypertensive participants using WHO stepwise technique. Blood glucose and lipid profiles were determined after overnight fasting. Finally, MetS was defined according to National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III Criteria. Results: The overall prevalence of MetS was 48.7% and urban dwellers had significantly higher prevalence of MetS (82.8%) compared to rural inhabitants (17.2%), p = 0.003. About 37.8%, 62.2%, 60.9% and 35.7% of the participants had abdominal obesity, elevated triglycerides, low HDL-c, and increased fasting blood glucose, respectively. In addition the mean HDL-c was significantly lower in MetS group compared to non-MetS group (39.4 vs. 47.6), P < 0.0001. Age over 60 years, overweight, and obesity were associated risk factors of MetS. The adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) was 8.2 (1.1-62.4) for age over 60 years, 2.8 (1.4-5.9) for overweight and 10.7 (3.8-29.8) for obesity. Moreover monthly income of 1001-2000 Ethiopian birr, income >= 2001birr, a retirement pension, being married, divorced/widowed were also significantly associated risk factors of MetS, the adjusted odds ratio (95% CI) was 3.6 (1.1-12.5), 5.8 (1.5-22.3), 5.3 (1.1-25.9), 7.2 (1.4-35.9) and 16.4 (1.1-244.2), respectively. Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among hypertensive patients and this may potentiate the risk of cardiovascular problems. Therefore, regular screening of patients for individual components of MetS is vital in order to avert/limit the risks before developing cardiovascular related morbidity and mortality.