Prevention Strategies for Metabolic Syndrome in Urban Young Adults: A Descriptive Quantitative Study

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome represents a significant public health problem due to its association with cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In urban settings, young adults are exposed to lifestyles characterized by physical inactivity, diets based on ultra-processed foods, and disrupted sleep patterns factors that favor the early development of metabolic alterations. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome and to describe prevention strategies in urban young adults. A quantitative, non-experimental, descriptive-correlational, cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 150 participants aged 20 to 35 years residing in an urban area. A structured questionnaire on lifestyle habits was administered, and anthropometric and clinical measurements were obtained (body mass index, waist circumference, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and tests of association, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results showed that 58.7% of participants were overweight or obese, 46.0% had abdominal obesity, and 29.3% met three or more criteria compatible with metabolic syndrome. In addition, 68.0% did not achieve adequate levels of physical activity, and 54.7% reported frequent consumption of ultra-processed foods. A consistent trend was observed between sedentary behavior and central adiposity. It is concluded that there is a considerable proportion of cardiometabolic risk among urban young adults, highlighting the need to strengthen primary prevention strategies focused on promoting physical activity, improving dietary quality, and ensuring early detection of metabolic alterations.