Introduction:

Metabolic syndrome represents an important public health problem due to its association with chronic noncommunicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.

Objective:

To describe the characteristics of metabolic syndrome and its associated factors in a population enrolled in a chronic disease control program, identifying opportunities to improve its diagnosis, treatment, and management.

Methodology:

An observational study was conducted with 2,482 patients enrolled in the 2023 program within the framework of the public chronic disease control program in Bucaramanga, Colombia. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia), and MS diagnostic criteria, including abdominal obesity. Adherence to treatment and adequate control of MS were evaluated using established indicators.

Results:

Of the participants, 55.2% were women. Abdominal obesity was the most prevalent diagnostic criterion for metabolic syndrome. The most frequent comorbidities were hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia. Treatment adherence was 48.5% and adequate MS control was achieved in 44.4% of cases.

Conclusions:

The findings underline the need to strengthen primary care with a multidisciplinary approach to improve the diagnosis and management of metabolic syndrome and its complications. Implementing an institutional improvement plan, coordinating efforts with the Ministry of Health, and promoting multicenter studies at the national level are recommended for more effective interventions.

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