Background & Objective:
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a clustering of cardiometabolic risk factors and has many different definitions according to different international organizations. The presence of multiple risk factors simultaneously in Metabolic Syndrome has been shown to increase the risk for atherosclerosis development in young and middle-aged adults and the risk of cardiovascular disease in middle age. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of MetS using Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III), International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and Harmonizing criteria of Joint Interim Statement (JIS) and to explore the level of agreement between them among young adults in the UAE.

Methods:
Data were drawn from the UAE Healthy Future Study participants aged 18 to 40. Demographic and health information was collected through self-reported questionnaires. Anthropometric data and blood pressure were measured, and blood samples were also collected for biochemical parameters.

Results:
The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was estimated at 14.7%, 19.5%, and 22.4% according to ATP III, IDF, and JIS respectively. The agreement between IDF and JIS was strong (Kappa: 0.89) and the agreement between ATP III and JIS (Kappa: 0.74) was considered moderate. Metabolic syndrome was more prevalent among men and older subjects. The significant risk factors of MetS in the studied cohort included male gender, older age group, being married, and a lower level of education.

Conclusion:
In this young population, MetS is highly prevalent with about one in four young Emiratis being affected. JIS definition identified more Emirati adults with MetS, therefore, should be recommended as the preferred diagnostic criterion.