Prevalence and factors associated with metabolic syndrome and its components among overweight and obese reproductive-age women in Bac Giang, Vietnam

Metabolic syndrome is more prevalent in women than in men in Vietnam, although data among women of reproductive age remain limited. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Bac Giang Province, Vietnam, in 2019 to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its components, and to determine associations with sociodemographic and health factors in 194 overweight and obese women aged 20-45 years. Anthropometric indicators, plasma glucose and lipid concentrations, blood pressure, sociodemographic characteristics, medical status, medication/supplement use, and energy intake were measured. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 47.4% (95% CI: 40.5, 54.5%). Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with obesity (OR: 4.14; 95% CI: 1.45, 11.85), and hypertension (OR: 25.40; 95% CI: 3.18, 202.89). Dyslipidemia, high plasma glucose concentrations, and hypertension were common. High parity was associated with higher plasma glucose and lower total cholesterol concentrations. Unemployment and higher plasma triglyceride concentrations were associated with higher total cholesterol concentrations. Increased systolic blood pressure and medical status were associated with higher triglyceride concentrations. Obesity was associated with high plasma glucose. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including lifestyle modifications, routine clinical screening, and socioeconomic support for vulnerable groups, to prevent and manage metabolic syndrome in overweight and obese women of reproductive age.