Abstract:
Background: Metabolic Syndrome is a global health concern associated with risk factors such as
glucose intolerance, high blood pressure, obesity, and dyslipidemia, leading to elevated
cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Individuals undergoing second-generation antipsychotic
treatment are a vulnerable population with notably higher mortality rates. However, there is
limited research on this topic in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan
Africa. This study fills that gap by examining how second-generation antipsychotics contribute
to the development of metabolic syndrome, including their impact and administration patterns.
Objectives: To assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome and its associated factors among
severe mental illness patients taking second-generation antipsychotics in Jimma University
Medical Center (JUMC), Jimma South-west Ethiopia 2023.
Methods: This study was conducted at Jimma University Specialized Hospital psychiatric
outpatient unit from January 1-30 2023 G.C. A cross-sectional study design was implemented
among 236 consecutively selected psychiatric patients. Interviewer administered questionnaire
was used to collect data and waist circumference, blood pressure, and levels of fasting blood
glucose, and lipid profile were measured to determine the prevalence of Metabolic syndrome. All
the data was collected using google forms and exported into SPSS where descriptive statistics,
and bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions with cut-off P <0.25 and P <0.05 respectively
were done to find significant associations. Result: - This study found that 23.7% of adults with
SMI treated with second-generation antipsychotics in Jimma had metabolic syndrome. After
adjusting for potential confounders using multivariate analysis, bipolar disorder (AOR=4.006, 95
% CI: 1.265, 12.681), being on second-generation antipsychotics medication for more than 5
years (AOR= 4.009 95 % CI: 1.118, 14.369) and taking olanzapine (AOR=4.254 95 % CI:
1.678, 10.787). Were associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: -
The study findings indicate a high prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adults using
second-generation antipsychotics. As a result, it is strongly advised to implement regular
metabolic monitoring and interventions for patients taking these medications, particularly in
those with bipolar disorder, those on medication for over 5 years, and those using olanzapine
