Abstract

Nurses who are mostly shift workers were found to be at risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). This study was designed to determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its associated factors among female nurses working in a teaching hospital. A cross sectional study was conducted among 404 female nurses working in a teaching hospital in north-eastern state of Malaysia. Data were collected using a proforma on sociodemographic and occupational characteristics, physical activity and depression anxiety and stress scale (DASS) 42 questionnaire (validated Malay version). Anthropometric, blood pressure measurement and fasting venous blood for fasting lipid profile and blood sugar were taken from each respondent. Majority of the respondents were Malay nurses with the mean age of 42.1 (SD 7.19) years old. Out of 404 respondents, 56.2% of them do shift work. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 24.3% (95% CI: 20.1, 28.4). The significant factors associated with metabolic syndrome were total duration of employment (years) and one way commuting time to work (minutes). There was a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among nurses working in a teaching hospital in North-Eastern state of Malaysia. Occupational factors such as total duration of employment and one way commuting time to work are associated with metabolic syndrome. 

Key words: Prevalence, metabolic syndrome, nurses, shift work, self-perceived stress.