A study of metabolic syndrome in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients attending out-patient department of a medical college

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) occurs as co-morbidity in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and requires evaluation.

MetS was studied in 336 patients of COPD (NCP-ATP III guidelines). TNF-α, IL-6 and C reactive protein were analysed. Patients were divided into metabolic (n=89) and non-MetS (n=247) groups and further divided into mild to very severe COPD category as per Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease.

The 89 patients (26.49%) had MetS. Waist hip ratio (WHR) was more in 80.89% (72/89). Triglycerides and HDL derangements were found in 63 and 75 patients. Fasting blood glucose, systolic and diastolic blood pressure criterion were met by 58 (65.17 %), 20 (22.47%) and 32 (35.95%) patients respectively. In non-MetS group, the derangement in above parameters were found in 41, 53, 109, 47, 43 and 46 patients respectively. Compared to MetS group, significant difference was found in WHR, lipid profile and blood pressure. Significant difference was found in waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL, fasting blood glucose and diastolic blood pressure between COPD groups with and without MetS. Moderate COPD patients had highest MetS. Difference in results as per severity of disease was found to be non-significant. Inflammatory markers between COPD groups with and without MetS were non-significant with levels more in latter group. Within COPD group (as per severity of disease) with MetS their levels were significantly raised.

MetS occurs as co-morbidity in COPD and requires evaluation which will help in better management and prevent cardio metabolic complications.