The Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in Patients Receiving Antipsychotic Medications at King Salman Armed Forces Hospital, Tabuk, KSA

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among patients receiving antipsychotic medications at in Tabuk, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among patients receiving antipsychotic medications at King Salman Armed Forces Hospital. Data collection involved structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure readings, and laboratory tests for HbA1c, random glucose, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Results: A total of 224 adult psychiatric patients participated in the study, with a metabolic syndrome prevalence of 35.7% based on NECP ATP III criteria. The male-to-female ratio was 2.5:1. Metabolic syndrome was significantly associated with male gender (P = 0.034). Participants with metabolic syndrome had higher BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, random glucose, and HbA1c (P < 0.001 for all). Sedentary lifestyle (P < 0.001), longer smoking duration (P < 0.001), and absence of smoking quit attempts (P < 0.001) were also significant. Longer psychiatric diagnosis (P < 0.001), extended psychiatric medication use (P < 0.001), and first-generation antipsychotics (P < 0.001) were associated with metabolic syndrome. Central obesity was more common in females, while high triglycerides were more frequent in males (P < 0.001). Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among psychiatric patients, highlighting the need for integrated care to address metabolic risks through early detection, lifestyle interventions, and collaboration between psychiatrists and primary care providers.