Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of metabolic abnormalities, including central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia and hypertension, which significantly elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible due to hormonal changes, especially estrogen deficiency, which adversely impacts metabolic health. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of MetS and its associated cardiovascular risk among postmenopausal women in Punjab, India.

Methodology: A longitudinal cohort study was conducted on 275 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 65 years. Data were collected through a standardized proforma including demographic, anthropometric, biochemical and physiological parameters. Blood samples were analyzed for fasting glucose, triglycerides and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). MetS was diagnosed based on International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using independent sample t-tests with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results: Women with metabolic syndrome showed significantly higher anthropometric measures and adiposity parameters compared to non-MetS subjects (p<0.05–p<0.001; t=3.27–7.53). Obesity indices, including BMI and WHR, were also significantly elevated (p<0.01–p<0.001). Fasting plasma glucose was significantly higher at follow-ups (p<0.05–p<0.001), while triglycerides were elevated but non-significant. HDL levels declined non-significantly and blood pressure differences remained statistically non-significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion: The study demonstrated a strong association between metabolic syndrome and increased cardiovascular risk in postmenopausal women. It can be concluded that early detection, lifestyle modification, and timely clinical interventions are essential to reduce disease burden and improve long-term health outcomes in this vulnerable population.