NCD Watch

Prevention and Control of Metabolic Syndrome

15 February 2024 (Thu)

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include excess body fat around the waist (i.e. central obesity), elevated blood pressure, elevated blood glucose and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Overall, individuals with metabolic syndrome would have a 46% increased risk of all-cause mortality compared to those without the syndrome.

The Population Health Survey 2020-22 observed that the prevalence of different components of metabolic syndrome among persons aged 15–84 ranged from 8.5% (raised blood glucose/diabetes) to 51.9% (raised blood cholesterol/hypercholesterolaemia). 37.8% of persons aged 15–84 had central obesity as defined by waist circumference. 29.5% of persons aged 15–84 had hypertension or raised blood pressure. 8.5% of persons aged 15–84 had diabetes or raised blood glucose or glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c). 51.9% of persons aged 15–84 had hypercholesterolaemia or raised blood cholesterol. 18.6% (22.2% for males; 15.3% for females) of persons aged 15–84 had raised triglyceride.

While some people are genetically prone to developing metabolic syndrome (such as those having a family history of diabetes or high blood cholesterol), lifestyle is a well-known factor that plays a major role in increasing or decreasing the risk of metabolic syndrome. To reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, members of the public are urged to lead a healthy lifestyle that includes eating a balanced diet, getting more physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviours, no smoking and refrain from alcohol drinking.

Members of the public are urged to regularly check for “3Hs” (i.e. high blood pressure, high blood glucose and high blood lipids) for early detection and intervention if indicated. Members of the public can consult family doctors about the said screenings.

Source: NCD Watch February 2024