Primary care physicians' knowledge, attitudes and practices related to metabolic syndrome screening and management in Alahsa, Saudi Arabia

The metabolic syndrome (Metabolic syndrome) is a cluster of the most dangerous risk factors for type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases (CVD), two of the main causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, which include hyperglycemia, abdominal obesity, lipid abnormalities and high blood pressure. Study design: a cross-sectional descriptive study. A predominant number (94.1%) knew what constitutes MS. However, merely more than a quarter of the participant (28%) knew correctly the serum LDL cutoff value for the diagnosis of MS according to IDF criteria. The aim of lipid lowering treatment was known by slightly more than three fourth (78%) of the participants. Two third also knew the target of antihypertensive therapy. More than two third (69.5%) were also aware that waist circumference is one of the criteria for diagnosis of Metabolic syndrome. There is a need to increase the awareness of MS among the PHC Physicians. More training programs need to be planned. A better awareness among primary care physician is warranted for an early diagnosis and effective management of MS in Saudi Arabia.