Global prevalence and trends of metabolic syndrome among University/College students: Systematic review and Meta-analysis

Introduction Evidence indicates that students in higher education spend a substantial proportion of their time attending lectures and studying in the library, whereas significant time pressure limits their ability to engage in and adopt healthy behaviours. Consequently, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome has become increasingly noticeable among university students. Appropriate estimation of the pooled prevalence in this population is essential for timely intervention in modifiable risk factors and to prevent advancement of the syndrome. Therefore, this review aimed to systematically analyse the weighted average of metabolic syndrome among university/college students. Methods An electronic search of the Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases was conducted until March 2026. We used the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist to assess the quality of the included studies. For data analysis, R version 4.5.2 software was used. We analysed a meta-analysis using a random-effects model and reported the pooled result with a 95% confidence interval. Subgroup analysis, meta-regression, and sensitivity analyses were carried out. We used a funnel plot and Egger test to assess publication bias. Results Overall, the analysis included 22 studies, representing a total of 18,224 study participants. The weighted pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 10% (95% CI: 5–16), (I 2 = 98.8%, P -value < 0.0001). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome components was low HDL cholesterol 39% (27–53), hypertension 21% (13–30), abdominal obesity 14% (8–20), hypertriglyceridemia 14% (8–21), and hyperglycaemia 12% (4–24). The subgroup analysis based on diagnostic criteria showed 10%, 12%, and 4% for the IDF, NCEP ATP III, and WHO/JISS/AHA/NHLBI, respectively. The prevalence has shown a slight decrease over time, with considerable variability from year to year. Conclusion The pooled prevalence of metabolic syndrome was approximately 10%, although very high between study heterogeneity limited the generalizability of the estimate. Low HDL was the most prevalent component of metabolic syndrome. It highlights the importance for students to implement targeted lifestyle interventions to prevent metabolic syndrome. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome among university students demonstrated a slightly downward trend, but the relationship was very weak.