Prevalence and Risk Patterns of Metabolic Syndrome Among Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease in Tripoli, Libya

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) represents a constellation of cardiometabolic abnormalities that considerably raise the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This hospital-based prospective study investigated the frequency, demographic distribution, and determinants of MetS among ischemic heart disease (IHD) patients in Tripoli, Libya. A total of 227 adults were assessed, including 127 individuals with established IHD and 100 without IHD. MetS was identified using the International Diabetes Federation (IDF, 2005) and the revised National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III, 2005) definitions. Data collection included anthropometric indices, blood pressure, fasting glucose, lipid profile, lifestyle practices, and family history through structured interviews. The occurrence of MetS was significantly higher in the IHD group: 68.5% (IDF) and 65.4% (NCEP ATP III), compared to 41% and 39% among controls (P<0.001). Abdominal obesity and hypertension were the most common abnormalities, followed by reduced HDL-C and raised fasting glucose. Prevalence increased with age, and clustering was more evident in women in the control group. Multivariable analysis revealed obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²), physical inactivity, high-fat diet, and family history of hypertension or diabetes as independent predictors (P<0.05). These results demonstrate a substantial burden of MetS among IHD patients in Libya, emphasizing the importance of early risk detection, lifestyle modification, and integrated management to mitigate cardiovascular complications.