Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Its Components in Workers of a High-Level Educational Institution, Cartagena-Colombia

To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome, components and their relationship in workers of a higher education institution of Cartagena-Colombia. An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out, with a probabilistic sample of 162 workers in a higher education institution. Sociodemographic data were recorded, physical examination including abdominal circumference, blood pressure, height, weight, as well as clinical tests of lipid laboratory (total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) and fasting glycemia determined by colorimetric and enzymatic methods. The parameters established by the American Heart Association-AHA were used to identify metabolic syndrome. A prevalence of metabolic syndrome of 11.1% was estimated. The most frequent components among individuals with metabolic syndrome were: increase in abdominal circumference (83.3%), hypertriglyceridemia (66.7%) and low levels of HDL-c (50.0%). The elevation of the abdominal perimeter was the most frequent component. No statistical evidence of association between any of the components of the syndrome was found. These evidences suggest to improve the life habits of the workers evaluated, in terms of their nutrition and physical activity.