Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and Associated Risk Factors Among Adolescent Students of a SelectedSchool in a Peri-urban Community

This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated risk factors among 303 adolescent students (aged 12–16 years) in a peri-urban community. Using modified NCEP-ATP III criteria, MetS prevalence was 13.9%, higher in boys (17.6%) than girls (8.7%). Key findings included high rates of triglycerides (44.2%), low HDL (42.9%), obesity (18.8%), and central obesity (30.4%). Poor dietary habits were common, with high consumption of oil and salt and insufficient fruit and vegetable intake. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to prevent adolescent cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.