Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent (37%) among patients with COPD, highlighting the need for early detection and integrated care to manage cardiovascular risk.
Objective Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. It is highly prevalent among patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed MetS prevalence in COPD patients, focusing on variations by gender, diagnostic criteria, and disease severity. Methods We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and CINAHL. Two reviewers independently extracted data using a standardized form, and study quality was assessed with the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Prevalence rates, with 95% confidence intervals (CI), were calculated using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses by sex, COPD severity, and MetS components were conducted. Results Forty-two studies, including 54,278 COPD patients, were analyzed. Overall, the prevalence of MetS was 37% (95% CI: 30.6–43.8%; I 2 = 99.03%, p < 0.001). Prevalence was 48% (95% CI 38.1 to 57.5) in males and 43% (95% CI 38.3 to 48.8) in females. Among studies using the Alberti definition, the pooled prevalence was 46% (95% CI 35.6 to 56.3). Patients with GOLD stage II showed a prevalence of 44% (95% CI 37.3 to 50.4). The most common MetS components were Hypertension 58% (95% CI 47.2 to 68.0) and increased waist circumference 51% (95% CI 37.1 to 64.6). Conclusion MetS is highly prevalent among COPD patients. Standardized diagnostic criteria are needed, and early detection with integrated care is recommended.
Alrabbaie et al. (Tue,) studied this question.