Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clustering of abdominal obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia,
and hyperglycemia that significantly elevates risks of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Globally,
about 20–25% of adults have MetS [1]. India is experiencing an epidemiological transition with rising
MetS, especially in urban areas, while traditionally lower rural rates are increasing. Rural regions house
~900 million Indians, so even moderate prevalence implies a large absolute burden. Aim: This narrative
review examines the epidemiology of MetS in rural India and associated risk factors, highlighting
prevalence trends and implications for interventions. Methods: A literature search was conducted using
PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Cochrane Library to identify studies published between 2018
and 2024 on the prevalence of MetS in Indian populations, with a focus on rural areas. Keywords included
“metabolic syndrome,” “India,” “rural,” “prevalence,” and “risk factors.” Inclusion criteria were adult
population studies reporting MetS prevalence or its individual components. Preference was given to more
recent and rural-focused research. Both original observational studies and relevant systematic reviews or
meta-analyses were included. National health reports and program documents were also reviewed. Data
were synthesized qualitatively, and key elements of the STROBE (Strengthening the Reporting of
Observational Studies in Epidemiology) checklist were used to appraise the reporting quality of included studies principles. Results: MetS prevalence in India ranges widely (~10% to 40% in adults), with urban
and female populations generally showing higher rates than rural and male. However, some rural cohorts
now report high prevalence approaching urban levels.
Keywords: Metabolic syndrome, rural India, prevalence, risk factors, abdominal obesity, hypertension,
dyslipidaemia, hyperglycaemia, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, epidemiological trends, non-
communicable diseases, rural health burden, lifestyle diseases
Publication date: 01/06/2026
https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/June/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10282.pdf
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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.6.10282
