Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Associated Risk Factors among the Sanitation Workers Employed in Urban Puducherry

Dr. Roshinmary, Dr. Karthiga V, Dr. Anandaraj, Dr. Vaitheswari A, Dr. Aravind, Dr. Kavita Vasudevan. P, Dr. Vinayagamurthy

Abstract: Background and Objectives: Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a clustering of cardiovascular risk factors, significantly contributes to the global non-communicable disease (NCD) burden. Sanitation workers, due to their socio-economic and occupational vulnerabilities are potentially at higher risk for Metabolic Syndrome. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its associated risk factors among sanitation workers in an urban municipality of Puducherry and the seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 317 sanitation workers. Data collection included socio-demographic details, behavioural risk factors (assessed via WHO STEPS tool), anthropometric and biochemical measurements and stress assessment using Cohen's Perceived Stress Scale. Hepatitis sero-prevalence was assessed in a subsample of 100 participants. Descriptive statistics, proportions with 95% Confidence Interval and prevalence ratios were calculated using SPSS version 16. Results: The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome was 38.9%. Elevated waist circumference (85.5%), low HDL (63.4%), and high fasting glucose (37.5%) were the most common abnormalities. Significant associations with Metabolic Syndrome were observed for overweight (PR: 1.89), obesity (PR: 1.03), elevated BP (PR: 1.4), high FBS (PR: 1.5), and moderate/severe stress. All participants reported unhealthy dietary practices; 73% had severe stress. Seroprevalence of hepatitis C was 6%, while hepatitis B was 0%. Interpretation and Conclusions: Metabolic Syndrome is highly prevalent among sanitation workers in Puducherry, with modifiable factors such as diet, obesity, and stress playing key roles. Targeted workplace health interventions are crucial to mitigate this emerging public health concern.

Keywords: Abdominal Obesity, Cardiovascular Risk, Hepatitis C, Metabolic Syndrome, Occupational Health, Sanitation Workers

How to Cite?: Dr. Roshinmary, Dr. Karthiga V, Dr. Anandaraj, Dr. Vaitheswari A, Dr. Aravind, Dr. Kavita Vasudevan. P, Dr. Vinayagamurthy, "Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Associated Risk Factors among the Sanitation Workers Employed in Urban Puducherry", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 811-819, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251110195129, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251110195129