The effect of migration on the incidence of new-onset metabolic syndrome in migrants to Qatar

• At: PPR SIG 2021 (2021)
• Type: Digital
• By: AL-ADAWI, Rana (Robert Gordon University , Qatar)
• Co-author(s): Rana Moustafa AlAdawi1,2α, Kirti. S. Prabhu3α, Derek Stewart4, Cristin Ryan5, Hani Abdelaziz6, Mohsen EL Edrisi7, Mohamed Izham4, Shahab Uddin3, Antonella Tonna2*
  
• Abstract:

  Introduction

  Evidence indicates that migration to Western countries is associated with increased metabolic syndrome (MetS) risk. There is, however, a scarcity of data about MetS incidence in migrants to Middle Eastern countries. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between migration and the incidence of MetS following a 24-months residency in Qatar.

  Objectives

  The intent of this project is to bridge the gap in the literature about MetS incidence amongst a group of Qatar migrant as HMC employee overtime. The research aimed to identify and describe MetS-free migrants who have been residing in Qatar for less than three months (baseline, routinely collected data) and to determine the incidence of MetS and MetS elements amongst these individuals 24 months post-arrival in Qatar (24 months post-baseline).

  Methods

  Following the necessary ethics approvals, migrants to Qatar aged 18 – 65 years were invited to participate. Baseline screening for MetS parameters included glycated haemoglobin, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, blood pressure, and waist circumference. Migrants with normal metabolic parameters were invited for rescreening 24-months post-migration and, parameters repeated. Those with abnormal metabolic parameters were counselled or referred for medical review and excluded from follow up.

  Results

  Four hundred seventy-two consented to participate of 1379 identified. 205 (43.4%) migrants had normal metabolic parameters at baseline and were recalled 24 months post-migration, with 160 completing follow-up. The incidence of MetS within this group rose to 17% (n=27/160, 95% CI; 11.0%-23.0%) and 81% (n=129/160) developed at least one element of MetS following 24 months in Qatar.

  Conclusion

  Migration to Qatar was associated with the development of MetS after 24 months of migration. Further studies are required to determine the risk factors and the predictors of MetS amongst migrants to Qatar.