Burden of Metabolic Syndrome among Urban Slum Population Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in North India: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Metabolic syndrome is a clustering of cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors that significantly increases the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases. Urban slum populations represent a vulnerable subgroup due to socioeconomic deprivation and unhealthy lifestyle patterns.
Objectives: To assess the burden of metabolic syndrome and associated risk factors among urban slum population attending a tertiary care hospital in North India.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2025 to November 2025 among 212 adults residing in urban slum areas attending a tertiary care hospital outpatient department. Participants aged ≥18 years were included using systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, anthropometric measurements, and biochemical investigations including fasting blood glucose and lipid profile. Metabolic syndrome was defined using harmonized criteria requiring central obesity plus any two metabolic abnormalities. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods, and p<0.05 was considered significant.
Results: The mean age of participants was predominantly between 31–60 years, with a slight male predominance. A high proportion belonged to lower socioeconomic status and exhibited sedentary lifestyle patterns. Central obesity was observed in 59.4% of participants, reduced HDL cholesterol in 52.8%, elevated blood pressure in 49.1%, and raised fasting glucose in 41.5%. Overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was found to be 38.7% among the study population. Sedentary lifestyle, high intake of refined carbohydrates, and tobacco use were common risk factors.
Conclusion: Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent among urban slum population attending tertiary care services in North India. The study highlights the urgent need for early screening, lifestyle modification, and targeted public health interventions in this vulnerable group to prevent long-term cardiovascular and metabolic complications.