MetS and cardiovascular risk factors among Palestinians of East Jerusalem

ABSTRACT

In a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2005, we determined the prevalence metabolic syndrome [MetS] and other atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk factors among a sample of 342 Palestinians >/= 20 years in East Jerusalem. Participants were interviewed and anthropometric measurements and blood testing were done. MetS was found in 115 [33.6%] participants, with no significant difference between the sexes. The prevalence of obesity, diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors was also high, with central obesity and obesity [BMI >/= 30 kg/m[2]] being significantly higher in women [P < 0.01]. With the exception of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and haemoglobin, there was a significantly higher prevalence of atherosclerotic markers among the MetS group