Abstract

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of interrelated conditions including obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, and hypertension-that collectively increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS in a targeted population in Tripoli, Libya, and to assess its relationship with obesity and insulin resistance. Two representative samples of 61 individuals each (aged 12-87 years) were analysed. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters were collected, while insulin resistance was assessed using the HOMA-IR index. Results revealed that 75% of men and 94% of women had waist circumferences above standard thresholds. Obesity was more prevalent among women (69.70%) compared to men (42.86%). Insulin resistance was detected in 63.94% of the second sample. Using IDF criteria, MetS prevalence was higher in men (67.86%) than women (42.42%). These findings highlight obesity and insulin resistance as major contributors to MetS in this population, underscoring the need for national diagnostic standards and public health interventions in Libya.

Keywords:Metabolic syndrome; Waist circumference; Body mass index (BMI); HOMA-IR; Dyslipidaemia; Obesity; Insulin resistance; Type 2 diabetes mellitus; Cardiovascular risk; Public health