Metabolic Syndrome in Type 1 Diabetes: Prevalence, Glycemic Control, and Therapeutic Implications
Selima KTARI
Metabolic syndrome (MetS), commonly associated with type 2 diabetes, is a major cardiovascular risk factor. However, its prevalence is increasingly recognized among patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The coexistence of MetS and T1D may worsen cardiovascular outcomes and complicate therapeutic management, highlighting the need for better characterization of this association.This was a descriptive cross-sectional study including 60 patients with type 1 diabetes followed at the National Institute of Nutrition in Tunis. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Clinical, anthropometric, and biological data were collected. Associations between MetS, glycemic control, and diabetes duration were analyzed.This study provides local data on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in patients with type 1 diabetes, a population traditionally considered at lower cardiometabolic risk. It highlights the emerging burden of MetS in T1D patients and emphasizes the importance of glycemic control in its occurrence.Regular screening for metabolic syndrome should be integrated into the routine follow-up of patients with type 1 diabetes, particularly in those with suboptimal glycemic control. Early lifestyle and therapeutic interventions targeting weight, blood pressure, and lipid profile may reduce cardiovascular risk. Future prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to better clarify causal relationships and long-term outcomes.The results showed a significant association between metabolic syndrome and poor glycemic control, suggesting that chronic hyperglycemia may contribute to the development of cardiometabolic abnormalities in patients with T1D. In contrast, no significant association was found between MetS and diabetes duration, indicating that factors other than disease chronicity may play a more important role. The higher prevalence observed among women is consistent with data reported in other studies and may be related to hormonal, behavioral, or lifestyle factors.Metabolic syndrome is increasingly prevalent among patients with type 1 diabetes, especially in women. Poor glycemic control appears to be a key contributing factor, whereas diabetes duration does not seem to play a significant role. Strict glycemic management and comprehensive cardiometabolic monitoring are essential to improve patient outcomes.
