Prevalence and Characteristics of Metabolic Syndrome among Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Patients in Malaysia

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and its characteristics among Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) patients in the north east of Peninsular Malaysia. Design: This was a cross sectional study conducted among 99 PCOS patients in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinics in two tertiary centers in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, from May 2008 to May 2010. Socio-demographic data, waist circumference, weight, height and blood pressure were recorded. A fasting blood sample was obtained for serum glucose and lipid profile determination. Metabolic syndrome was defined in accordance with the International Diabetic Federation (IDF) 2005. Result: The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome was 43.4% (N=43). Age and a family history of diabetes were significantly associated with MS. (OR=1.11, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.22) and (OR=3.07, 95% CI: 1.22-7.70) respectively. Conclusion: The prevalence of MetS among PCOS patients was high. Age and a family history of diabetes strongly predicted MetS amongst PCOS patients.