Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Three Regions in Venezuela: The VEMSOLS Study

Abstract Background: No previous study has evaluated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MS) in more than one region in Venezuela. Objective: To determine the prevalence of MS in three Venezuelan regions. Methods: From 2006 to 2010, a total of 1,320 subjects aged ≥ 20 years were selected by multistage stratified random sampling from the regions of Lara State (western region), Mérida State (the Andean region), and Capital District (Capital Region). Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical analysis were obtained from each participant. MS was defined according to the harmonized Joint Interim Statement (2009) definition. Results: Mean age was 44.8 ± 0.39 years and 68.5% of the participants were female. The overall prevalence of MS was 35.7% (95% confidence interval 32.2 - 39.2%), while the prevalence was 42.5% (95% CI 38.8 - 46.1%) among men and 32.6% (95% CI 29.1 - 36.0%) among women (p