Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Components Among Patient with Non-AlcoholicFatty Liver Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To check the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its individual components among the patients with NAFLD.

Study Design: cross-sectional observational study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Mohi-ud-din Islamic Medical College, Mirpur, AJK, Pakistan, from February 26 to August 25, 2025.

Methods: Adult patients who are ultrasonographically confirmed NAFLD were enrolled using consecutive sampling. The International Diabetes Federation's criteria were used to define MetS. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical data were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-26 was used to statistically analyze the data and multivariable logistic regression test was used to identify independent predictors of metabolic syndrome.

Results: Mean age of the included patients was 46.8 ± 11.9 years, and 118(55.7%) were males. MetS was seen in 134(63.2%) of patients. Central obesity 162(76.4%) was the most frequent component, followed by elevated fasting glucose (60.4%), reduced HDL cholesterol 122(57.5%), elevated blood pressure 118(55.7%), and raised triglycerides 114(53.8%). Patients with metabolic syndrome were significantly older with increased BMI, waist
circumference, fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and blood pressure (p < 0.001). Increasing age, higher body mass index, and physical inactivity were independently associated with metabolic syndrome.

Conclusion: Patients with NAFLD are very likely to have MetS. Routine metabolic evaluation and lifestyle-focused interventions should be integral to the management of these patients.