Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Thai monks in Bangkok

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included the monks who lived in Bangkok temples and consented to participate in the study. The participants filled up the questionnaire queried about personal and health data and underwent physical examination including anthropometric measurement before biochemical blood test.  The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was defined by the International Diabetes Foundation (IDF) 2005 and Harmonization 2009 criteria.

Results: Among 190 Thai monks included in the study, the median age was 44 years old [range, 27-58 years]. The median body mass index was 24.95 kg/m² [range, 22.3-27.8 kg/m²].  The prevalence of metabolic syndrome by IDF 2005 and Harmonization 2009 criteria were 16.8% and 28.4% respectively.

Conclusion: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Thai monks was moderately. To reduce the consequences of these metabolic abnormalities, an improvement of health system to develop strategies for prevention, detection, and treatment of metabolic syndrome is important.