OBJECTIVES: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) encompasses a set of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and all-cause mortality and becomes a common health issue that imposes a significant burden on healthcare systems. The primary components of MetS include obesity (particularly central adiposity), hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and hyperglycemia. Early lifestyle intervention and health guidance are crucial for preventing the onset of chronic diseases. Enhancing self-management awareness in patients with MetS can prevent related chronic diseases and complications, reduce healthcare utilization, and lessen societal burdens, thereby achieving the goal of health investment.

METHODS: In July 2022, the Health Promotion Administration and the National Health Insurance Administration in Taiwan launched a national lifestyle intervention program targeting metabolic syndrome. Individuals aged 20 to 64 years with MetS or pre-diabetes are eligible for the program, which includes counseling and educational sessions on lifestyle changes (such as physical activity, nutrition, the ‘722 protocol’ for home blood pressure monitoring, and smoking cessation) conducted by community clinics. The program provides financial incentives for healthcare providers to enhance patients’ health literacy, offer follow-up every three months, and conduct annual examinations for metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS: By June 1, 2024, a total of 194,221 patients had joined the program, and 39,334 of them, having received at least three follow-up visits, were included in the analysis. The mean age of the patients was 52.3±8.7 years, and the majority were male (54.2%). Most participants (88.8%) met at least three MetS criteria. There was significant improvement in HDL levels (52.0%) and hypertriglyceridemia (49.1%). Participants showed a marked reduction in the number of MetS criteria they met (34.4%), and 14.6% of them achieved remission from MetS.

CONCLUSIONS: The national community clinic-based lifestyle intervention program, which includes counseling on diet and exercise and health literacy education, resulted in significant improvements in MetS and demonstrated phased achievements.