Metabolic syndrome, components and associated factors in adults aged 40 years or older from a city in southern Brazil

Abstract Aims To estimate the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MS), its components and associated factors in adults aged 40 years or older. Methods Cross-sectional population-based study, with 1180 residents in a Southern Brazilian medium-sized municipality. We conducted household interviews, anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests. MS was defined according to the harmonized criteria of 2009. Sociodemographic, behavioral variables, and health services utilization were analyzed. The tests used were Chi-square, Fisher's exact test and the Wald test in the analysis of multiple factors by Poisson regression. Results Among the respondents, 959 (81.3%) performed laboratory tests and anthropometric measures. The prevalence of MS was 53.7% higher in women and in older ages. The presence of five MS components was observed in 12.0% (women – 15.8%, men – 7.3%). Age was the only variable associated with MS after adjustments. Conclusion The high prevalence of MS and its components, different in each sex and age group, indicates the need for coping with collective action approaches and establishment of individual therapeutic goals.